Is there a difference between training and facilitation?
Each is valid in their relevant environments and according to the desired outcomes. They also no doubt have crossover… but what really is the difference? And what is it that we as a Learning and Development team can do to support your team?
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Training |
Facilitation |
Training is teaching people how to do something such as a new skill that is necessary, in this environment learners have less control of their learning |
Facilitation is providing a space where people learn through exploration and discovery (through a facilitated process) – the knowledge is drawn from the group and shared. Learners can set the agenda and share skills and knowledge |
As Learning Partners, we draw on our facilitation skills, delivering a learning experience either face to face or virtually that is engaging, interactive and effective for participants. We often take a facilitated approach to:
- engaging people into the conversation
- encouraging participation
- draw on existing knowledge and experience of participants
- create opportunities for practical application
- provide demonstrations and real-life examples
- managing group dynamics including power dynamics
- listen and ask open questions to generate discussion
- have a little fun along the way
We recognise that facilitating a workshop can be challenging for everyone. The Learning and Development Stream of Eva Burrows College has a team of learning professionals across each state of Australia who can assist you with tools and strategies that will help you bring out the best in team discussions or alternatively a Learning Partner can come to you, face to face or online, to facilitate a workshop for you and your team.
