What does it mean to be a trainer in the Association?
Naturally, different groups and different communities of practise have different paths to becoming a trainer. Each community has own values, principles and believes.
First, let’s clarify the terminology for us a facilitator is a person using the LEGO SERIOUS PLAY method to help groups of people to create solutions or solve problems. A trainer is a person who trains facilitators in the method, so that the facilitator can run the workshops. A Master-Trainer is some one training trainers so that they can train facilitators.
In the Association of Master Trainers we have decided that it is a pre-requisite for all trainers to have a strong client and end-user experience. In order to be accepted into the training as a trainer of facilitators, the aspiring trainer needs to have done many workshops, and many different types of workshops with the LEGO SERIOUS PLAY method.
To put it plainly, we don’t believe that you can teach other to fish, until you have actually been fishing your self, and have been fishing in many different kinds of water in different conditions.
Therefore, becoming a trainer is not a short-term window of opportunity, it I not a momentary opening in the market that one exploits and then moves on.
It is a long-term commitment, a belief, in the method and a drive for making work-life more meaning full for the individuals, and for making organizations more successful.
In practical terms, once the applicant has entered into the process of becoming a trainer it typically takes a couple of years. The steps includes writing two papers, observing a number of sessions, participating in a two day “in-person” training program, and then co-delivering with a Master Trainer. Upon a successful co-delivery the applicant is graduated as a trainer.
The two-day program is delivered by Robert Rasmussen and Per Kristiansen together and typically has 3-5 participants.
Our vision is not to have as many facilitators or as many trainers as possible, our vision is to create real and lasting impact with the LEGO SERIOUS PLAY method, and we believe that the path to that is paved with experienced and strong facilitators and Trainers of Facilitators.
Well said, Per. I believe what sets us apart from other communities of practice is this strong focus on experience with the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Method. I feel it is important for us to be able to support the facilitators we train, and we cannot do that if we don’t have our own experience to draw from.
Thank you, Per, for your crystal clear views, drawing a line, an
ascending and aspiring line of progression.
Glad to be here as a fledgling facilitator, still negotiating my way through a shroud of mist, with a light at the end.
I read this as if I were sat on me knees in front of a Zen Master listening to his advice.
Tusind Tak.
My question would be; ¿The first step to become a trainer is being a facilitator? And then with experience (fishing sessions), study and commitment we can aspire to be trainers. ¿I’m I right?
Indeed, that is the approach we are going for