Participants' stories
Peer learning and why it is useful
In our organisation (ChildHope), our challenge is not lack of expertise or learning - we have a team of experienced, talented and knowledgeable people. We have tools up to our ears. Our problem is that we do not always create enough space for reflection and communication of that learning between ourselves, others in similar situations, and with (and between where they are interested) our partners around the world. Many of us within ChildHope have participated in peer learning sessions and all found them extremely powerful.
Emma found it reassuring that others were "struggling with similar issues. Their approaches were revealing either because they were similar to mine (and I understood better the limitations or advantages of such approaches) or they were inspiringly different."
A great opportunity
Peer learning has been a powerful way for a number of us to make huge progress with our learning agenda in conjunction with others in similar situations. The process takes a moment to get used to, as Emily explains:
"At first, I was quite sceptical that a session that was so clearly structured and time constrained would provide sufficient opportunities to discuss some of the issues that I was concerned with or needed to resolve. However, to my surprise, it was precisely the simple and straightforward method based on presentation, clarification, affirmation and questioning that made the dynamic of this group process work and that facilitated sharing problems with enough time to incorporate everyone's feedback, and give each of us time to present a problem.
I found the peer learning group was a great opportunity to discuss work issues with people facing similar challenges, but also to get support and ideas and learn from each others' experiences. Further, it has also provided me with a safe and confidential space to meet, network and share resources and information with other colleagues."
A fantastic facilitator
Peer learning works particularly well with a skilled facilitator, one that understands that the group needs to feel inspired, safe and engaged. We have all found Vicky Cosstick extraordinary in her understated ability to get the most out of people. As Catherine puts it:
"I found the course an invaluable experience, one that gave me the opportunity to share with others in a structured context the challenges we face as development practitioners regardless of organisation, thematic focus, gender or age. Vicky is a fantastic facilitator and she creates a safe environment for people to be able, if they so wish, to open up and relate their experiences which at times can be quite traumatic. It also strengthens your own skills and allows you to learn from your peers; a luxury which we often do not have time or space to do in this sector.
I strongly recommend it to others, as not only has it been a great support to me it has also strengthened my own ability to relate to partners and facilitate discussion with them, often around quite sensitive issues."
Emma Crewe, Catherine Klirodotakou and Emily Mulville
ChildHope UK
