It became apparent to many teacher-librarians and resource personnel across the province that many teachers were unable to fully realize the potential of the new approaches without extensive examination of their role in a resource rich environment that depends on their own ability to select, delineate and utilize a wide range of resources in the classroom. It also became apparent that it was necessary to provide a retooling opportunity for teachers in a format that maximizes the efficacy and effectiveness of such instruction without significant costs to individual teachers, school boards or the Ministry. The participants were invited to attend a six-day immersion program. An immersion model was used to design the content and structure of this program. An attempt was made to employ an approach where the significant values of adult interaction, extensive experience and intensive communication are not lost to outside pressures.
Immersion requires close interaction of instructor and students in a highly structured situation.
Participants had the opportunity to fully utilize the shared wisdom of the group. Given the shortness of time, it was imperative to maximize the learning experience. Housing and meals were provided on campus. Figure 2 shows an outline of the major topics included in the program. Course Outline Two hundred thirty four experienced elementary teachers from all over the province participated in the four weeks of this program.