Pangea has been conducting facilitator training for people around the world, from high school students and beyond, to support workshop activities for young people.
The target audience for facilitation training is highly diverse, including students and the general public, as well as school teachers from elementary to university (even pre-school teachers), international NGO staff, children’s center employees, museum curators, UNESCO personnel, senior-level IT engineers, and corporate executives.
A training program is provided for the staff members at each site before the launch for smooth implementation of workshop activities for young people. After several activities the trainer will visit the site again to evaluate operations. Facilitator Manuals are provided at the training sessions.
Here is an example outline of a facilitator training:
1. Introduction a) Pangaea Presentation b) Activity Training Session 2. On-Site Training a) Simulation training with adult participants only b) On-site training at the activity participated by children 3. Technical Staff Training a) Introductory Presentation b) Technical Training Session 4. Facilitator Leader Training a) Pangaea Presentation b) Activity Training Session c) Other (incl. Drafting agenda, Site preparation) d) FL Certification exam by demonstration 5. Technical Leader Training a) Pangaea Presentation b) Training Session (Activity) c) Other (incl. Network configuration, Processing materials, Data maintenance) d) Written Exam e) Demonstration 6. Onsite Training Evaluation
Voices from training participants
Head teacher of a public elementary school in Kenya
For school teachers who are accustomed to and practice the traditional teaching method, where a single teacher stands at the podium and instructs a large group of students, the concept of a facilitator feels foreign, difficult to understand, and even more challenging to put into practice, even if understood intellectually.
For example, at the beginning of the program, one elementary school teacher only observed from a distance with arms crossed, standing at the back of the venue, without actively engaging with the participating students. The teacher seemed resigned, saying, “In a school setting with large student numbers, it is impossible to interact with children in such a high-quality manner.”
However, after undergoing training and deepening their understanding of the facilitator’s role, as well as repeatedly applying these methods in museum-based activities, the teacher gradually began incorporating facilitation techniques into their school environment. Moreover, the teacher personally witnessed how students who participated in the program at the museum exhibited positive changes in their school lives, such as improved sociability and increased proactiveness.
Teacher in Elementary school in Kenya
The methodology of handling children really changed because in formal learning, learners with disability are segregated in their own room, comparing with Pangaea whereby the mode of interaction is inclusive.
University student in Malaysia, education major
It exposed me to different cultures which in turn influenced my way of thinking, how I view issues and also to accommodate other people from different races.
Museum officer in Kenya
I have learnt to accept and appreciate different cultures. I have learnt tolerance. I have been able to overcome social prejudice. Pangaea has transformed me into a better Public Programs Officer. Pangaea is a really exciting, interactive program that connects disadvantaged Kenyan children with other Parts of the world. I recommend a replica of Pangaea, going forward.