Time proved to be the element that set this workshop experience apart from other training activities. Having the opportunity to react and reflect, consider and creatively pursue options for dealing effectively in the workplace proved to be invaluable. The group found themselves willingly working through lunch both days to ensure that ample attention was paid to tasks assigned as part of learning what goes into effective communication skills in the workplace. For example, participants were asked to interview someone and then express in a brief skit what they perceived to be the essential essence of that person. Other areas touched upon included active listening, problem solving through negotiations and compromise, and reaching consensus while respecting all concerned parties.
Librarians are busy people.
Two days is a lot to commit to a training experience but Presence and Relationship Building proved to be a useful investment of everyone's time and energy. The Boston Region is in the process of negotiating for a series of computer training courses to be given over the course of the year. Each attendee will receive a course workbook which they will be able to keep. Intermediate Word 97 Introduction to Excel 97 Introduction to Access Introduction to Front Page Introduction to PowerPoint Internet Fundamentals Fundamentals of Internet Research HTML Fundamentals Courses will be limited to 12 participants. Popular courses will be repeated.