This post is part of a larger series to address the most common myths, misconceptions, and excuses that chapters and members have regarding the LEAD Program. Follow the entire conversation and get caught up on each of the issues we are addressing by clicking here.
Myth 6. For it to count as LEAD it has to follow the facilitator guidance notes exactly
Detailed facilitator guidance notes have been provided for all phase I-IV sessions and most All Chapter sessions (some All Chapter sessions include only session snapshots which give learning outcomes, suggested resources and facilitators, and sometimes potential outlines for the session).
Following these guidance notes will result in a successful, engaging, and interactive session that accomplishes the intended objectives. Facilitator guidance notes are written in the form of a script and provide a clear roadmap, needed materials, and embedded activities for a session. This model allows for nearly anyone, given enough advance notice and preparation, to facilitate a successful session.
In many cases, the facilitator guidance notes can be adapted based on:
- Participants’ knowledge of the subject matter and pre-review of the online content
- Facilitator’s experience and comfort with the topic
- Setting of the session
Swapping out activities, shortening sections that participants are overly familiar with, and even foregoing the written “script” when a facilitator has their own program that covers the same objectives, are all examples of suitable times to adapt or stray from a session’s facilitator guidance notes.
Two prime examples include:
(1) Having a session conducted by a subject matter expert who has their own program or script for presenting the subject;
(2) Attending a professional speaker’s session or other similar offering already being hosted by the campus or another group.
In both cases, the facilitator guidance notes are simply replaced by the speaker’s presentation and, if the objectives listed in the session guidance notes are met, this session acts as a perfect replacement. In instances where the presentation only addresses some or part of the session’s objectives, a simple follow up should be arranged to ensure participants gain the full experience intended by the LEAD session being replaced.
Serve in the Light of Truth 