Florida Works Trainers Questions

Can you use this program with an open entry/open exit program? Students working at their own pace?

Yes. You can use it, but we encourage teachers to start learners in small groups and have them sign a learner contract to complete at least one book (24-30 hours) with their team. This kind of commitment is a JOB SKILL!

Yes, we field tested with high-risk populations. It was well received. I think the focus on learning through dialogue and shared life experiences helps the high risk population immensely.

This is at the 4-6 reading level. We don't have anything lower. BUT teachers could group learners with varied abilities, so that a lower literate learners could work with a higher learner. The teacher could also read directions and quotes aloud for the learners. Most of the
learning is done through talking and projects so lower literate learners should be able to get the point of the lesson even if he can't read it. This is the same answer for Intermediate ESL learners.

Yes, you can supplement this with other classes. But to get the ABE workforce readiness LCP you will need to set it up asi ts own class. For instance if your GED or ABE learners come to you every day from 9 to 12. You might schedule GED on four days and have Fridays
scheduled as Workforce readiness. To the learners, they just come everyday and Friday is workforce. But on the books they are registered for two different courses. See the difference?

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Our objectives for the 11/20/99 training were:
1) To become familiar with the Florida Works training materials, and
2) To develop a list of discussion questions that will help the grant run smoothly.

Although we did not have time to discuss the list of questions, we started a list of questions throughout the day.

How do I get started?

Review your Trainer Notebook and Book A. Become familiar with the materials.
Plan to attend and participate in a regional training. Watch the website for announcements of locations and dates.
Set-up a proposed schedule of workshops for your area. Send to Ron and Teri for coordination and approval.

What do I have to send in to get paid?

Sign-in sheet from each training (16 to 30 people is your goal)
Evaluation forms from participants (See Exit Interview in your trainer Notebook)
Trainer Evaluation Form. (This still needs to be developed).

We want to document the impact teacher training has on the learning environment in the form of a transfer assessment. We would like to include support systems, retention, and changes in the learning environment, job placement. We need your ideas. What would be effective? What could you do as a trainer to help?

We still need to develop Session II of the Florida Works Teacher Training workshop based on the “Reaching Out” and “Written Reflections” sections in your training module. It will be available online. How can we encourage participants to complete this session? What should be the trainer’s role in supporting the participants? What will encourage trainers to remain active in support of new teachers? What other support could you offer new teachers? What are you willing to do? (Mentoring, site observation, etc.)

Distribution continues to be a big question. Here are the options under consideration:
(1) DOE print and make materials available through their catalogue,
(2) Download from website
(3) Handout disks at teacher training
(4) Send out Masters of books to each institution represented at the teacher training.

Training Modules (see Trainer Notebook)
Samplers of Book A (being developed)
Handouts & Evaluations
Portfolio Samples