Research:
I have spent a considerable amount of time researching how to conduct a successful workshop and I have found out some things that have completely changed my initial plan and outline for the workshop.
Key elements I have taken are listed below and I now will refer back to these throughout the workshop process:
- Define goals within the exercise to outline what you want to achieve.
- Select a number of people who are going to attend and cater to the groups needs.
- Decide on a location. This could link to the project.
- Create an agenda covering the main points to refer to throughout the workshop.
- Create visual aids as an example and guide for workshop participants.
- Make sure you have enough time to complete everything intended.
- Finally, Develop a follow-up questionnaire to find out how the session went.
‘Remember, the more detailed your plan, the more you’ll ensure that your workshop will run to schedule – and be successful.’
This is such a powerful message that I found on the website. It is so true, if you over plan and over prepare you will cover all aspects that could perhaps go wrong.
Planning:
I have created visual aids for the participants in regards to fabric swatches and how to choose what one you would like to use and work with.
The colour chart above gives a brief description as to what it stands for and what it represents.
I wanted the session to be extremely hands on so I asked participants to explore the garden an d pick flowers, herbs and other plants that they either liked the look of or had a link to a memory (preferably a link to a memory or time in their life).