Professional Discussion by Claire Richardson https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2 Overview of how to conduct a PD and prepare apprentices en-us 2018-05-11 10:46:10 UTC 2023-01-29 17:24:16 UTC hello@padlet.com Introduction claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896052 In this padlet we will explain:

  • Professional Discussions and Purpose
  • Preparing for Professional discussions
  • Hints and Tips for Apprentices
  • How to make a good first impression
  • How to introduce yourself
  • How to keep a conversation flowing
  • How to practice and build confidence
  • Listening skills
  • Critical thinking skills
  • How bodylanguage influences your communication
  • The End Point Assessment discussion and what this will look like


]]> 2018-05-11 10:46:10 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896052 What is a discussion and what is its purpose? claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896092 Discussion is defined as a process of talking about a subject in order to reach a decision or to change minds. 

Discussion is also an assessment method that your Trainer and End Point Assessment (EPA) Assessor is going to use during and at the end of your apprenticeship. You may also be  completing your functional skills in English and this would also involve a speaking and listening assessment based on the concept of discussion.

The purpose of discussion is:

  • To share ideas/find out what others are thinking about the topic
  • Learn more or understand more about a topic
  • To think critically, meaning looking at things in detail
  • Improve our language skills and confidence
  • Change minds and persuade others of our point of view or to alter our own thinking


]]> 2018-05-11 10:46:33 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896092 The discussion cycle claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896130 Before looking into the skills you require to successfully lead a discussion and conversations in general you need to understand that discussions have an order or cycle of events.

An introduction, the communication of the subject matter or objective, a summary prior to moving to the next objective, the confirmation of the subject matter or your point of view with the audience and ...repeat using with the next point or objective of the discussion.

]]> 2018-05-11 10:46:46 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896130 First impression claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896145
Making a good first impression

Throughout your apprenticeship learning journey you will meet many 'new' people that relate to your work and/or learning, two such people are your Trainer and your End Point (EPA) Assessor.

Both, your Trainer and EPA assessor will be looking to assess your knowledge, skills and behaviour and therefore it is important to make a good first and lasting impression. There are many ways in which to achieve this and below you will find a great article and video as to how you can achieve this.

Please read the article by clicking on the picture below, watch the associated video clip and discuss your thoughts on this with your Trainer.
Are you able to practice these strategies on a new person that you are meeting? how did this go?
(please note you need to click on the link title not the picture as this image is a space holder only)]]> 2018-05-11 10:46:55 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896145 Confidence claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896235 It is true that some people are 'born' more confident than others however confidence is a skill that can be learnt. As discussed in the post above, preparation and practice are a good way to start, also ensuring your personal appearance matches the context and aim of the discussion can bring personal confidence.
There is another important factor when trying to achieve and portray confidence and this is:

Self Belief




]]> 2018-05-11 10:47:29 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896235 Tips to build confidence claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896260
Watch the following TED-ED video on practical tips to build confidence.


]]> 2018-05-11 10:47:40 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896260 Body Language claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896275 We have discussed what skills, knowledge and behaviours we need to demonstrate to be considered an effective communicator but we have not yet discussed the importance of being aware of one's own body language and the impact body language can have on others. Body language is a non verbal communication method but did you know that over 50% of human conversation relays on body language? How aware are you of the signal you give to others?

Being aware and understanding how body language influences the success of our communications or in this case a discussion is an essential life and work skill and also a skill that is depleting due to the use of online/social media communication mediums.

Watch the video below to build your awareness and try to practice these skills in everyday conversations, feedback to your Trainer, reflect and discuss how effective this strategy can be.]]> 2018-05-11 10:47:53 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896275 claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896292 As well as the video above please read the following article on the importance of body language.]]> 2018-05-11 10:48:01 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896292 Active listening and how it can help you claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896326 Whatever the conversation or discussion we all like to be heard but also we all like to be listened to!

Body language will convey if your are actively listening to someone and equally the person you are communicating with will pick subtle clues if you are not, therefore this skill can really support your personal and work relationships, helping you to get ahead!

Read the following article on active listening and as with all other skills discussed try to practice this and reflect and discuss the outcome of this practice with your Trainer.
(please note you need to click on the link title not the picture as this image is a space holder only)]]> 2018-05-11 10:48:10 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896326 End Point Assessment claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896347 The end point assessment discussion provides a comprehensive opportunity to assess your knowledge and understanding as well as your analytical thinking and critical thinking abilities.

 It is important to remember that the professional discussion is not just a question and answer session and throughout this padlet we discussed the stages that you need to work through in order to be able to make your discussion a success.

The EPA professional discussion is a highly structured interview looking at it from the point of your Trainer and EPA assessor that are looking to meet specific criteria and themes within the activity. 

From your viewpoint of the candidate, the discussion should feel open, fluid and productive. You should have the opportunity to provide your insights, knowledge that is not prompted by the assessor.

This mean you must be comfortable in leading the discussion.

  • You will have a plan in place
  • You will know the format of the discussion
  • You will have a list or points that you are going to cover
  • It will involve some standardised questions
  • It will be focused and professional
  • Your EPA assessor will try to make you feel as comfortable as possible
  • You may be asked to elaborate on certain points you are covering in the discussion
  • You should summarise your points at appropriate stages in the conversation
  • The discussion will be recorded in writing, audio or video
  • The discussion will be assessed and graded with a response of pass, merit, fail or distinction
  • Your employer will receive feedback

]]> 2018-05-11 10:48:20 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896347 Analytical & critical thinking claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896360 What is critical and analytical thinking?

Critical analytical thinking is a skill that you will work towards through the journey of your apprenticeship and you will develop over a period of time and with the teaching and support of your Trainer.

In simple terms this means 'looking at something very closely' and not just taking for granted what you see, read or hear.

Your Trainer will work with you to:

  • Evaluate if your responses are appropriate, and the information you know is up-to-date
  • To be critical of your sources and evidence
  • Evaluate how far the evidence or examples you are using really prove the points that you wish to make
  • To weigh up opinions, arguments or solutions against the agreed assessment criteria for a discussion
  • To think a line of reasoning through to its logical conclusion.
  • To check for hidden bias or hidden assumptions.
  • To check whether the evidence and argument really support the conclusions.

Watch the following video of 5 tips to improve your critical thinking, as before try to use these strategies when you are preparing for assessments with your Trainer that involve discussion as an assessment method. Reflect and act on the feedback that you receive to develop your skills.

]]> 2018-05-11 10:48:28 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259896360 Introduce yourself claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259901810 To ensure you are making a good first and lasting impression on the people that you meet it is important that you introduce yourself.
Your introduction should tell people who you are and make people want to engage with you, for this to happen you need to come across as confident.

Confidence puts people at ease!

When introducing yourself consider adding, other than your name:
  • Where you work and your job title
  • A description of the setting you work in and/or organisation you work for
  • The benefit your organisation or you can offer someone

How long your introduction is and how much detail you use is entirely pending on the situation that you are in. Do remember to:

  • Speak clearly
  • Smile
  • Seek and maintain eye contact with the person you are speaking to
]]> 2018-05-11 11:30:17 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259901810 Preparing for PD claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259902649 The key to confidence is preparation!

  1. Be clear! Ensure that you understand the overall aim of the discussion and its objectives, in case of a professional discussion with your Trainer or in the future this may be your EPA assessor. You can do this by being familiar with the skills, knowledge and behaviours that you are expected to demonstrate and be confident and comfortable with the subject matters discussed in the apprenticeship standards and the associated qualification if  the latter applies to your apprenticeship.
  2. Practice! Professional discussion will feature in your apprenticeship assessment visits, use the ideas in this padlet, put these to use and reflect on the outcome with your Trainer. Implement any development points that you may have identified during those reflections and document this on your personal development plan. You can also use your discussion skills with work colleagues and asked for their feedback on your performance.
  3. Warm up! Study or revisit the subject shortly before your discussion.
  4. Create a good climate! Know the person or persons name that you will be meeting and understand why they are there. Arrange the room if you are able to be conducive to communication. Build an atmosphere of respect. 
  5. Consider responses! Consider how the the person that you are in discussion with may react or respond to the subject matter and what questions you may get asked. You can do this by thinking about what questions you would ask or by asking others what they responses would be. Try to cover all angles. The questions that you may be presented with can take different forms, such as:
  • Hypothetical - meaning questions based on scenarios that may not have occurred
  • Cause and effect questions, meaning questions based on statements that describe a situation and it's effect
  • Exploratory question, meaning questions that preset to explore a particular subject
  • Rationale question, meaning based a statement or logical explanation 
  • A diagnostic question, this is an assessment of knowledge for example a math question assesses what a person knows

Questions can also be used to move a conversation forward.

]]> 2018-05-11 11:36:07 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259902649 Get Ready for PD's claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259911281 Professional Discussion for Apprentices

professional discussion is a structured discussion between you and your assessor. Your manager or employee representative will also be present to support (but not lead). 
The purpose of the discussion is to revisit any parts of the standard not already fully covered in the previous assessment methods and to allow your assessor the opportunity to ask you structured questions about your projects, portfolio, development and day to day work.

Key facts: 

● It will be the final assessment to take place
●  The PD will last for 40 minutes, including 10 minutes for the review of the recipe log 
●  You will be sent an agenda for the professional discussion at least 5 days in advance, which will highlight the key areas of the discussion
●        Will aim to draw out your energy, enthusiasm, competence and excellence
●        Will be completed in a quiet, controlled environment
 
Tips to help you prepare for the discussion:

●  Make sure that supporting evidence, such as learning logs/journals are up to date and competed in full
●  Review the agenda with your line manager, identify key points you want to include in the discussion. 
● Make notes that you can bring with you for prompt.
●  Ensure you understand all areas of the agenda, seek clarification for any aspects you do not. 
●  Identify if there are any support materials such as a personal development plan that you wish to bring with you to illustrate points. 
● Check you have a suitable quiet areas arranged for the discussion to take place. And if the discussion is being completed remotely that there is adequate internet signal. 
● Provide as much detail as you can and don’t be afraid to “show off” the PD is an opportunity for you to put across your achievements, strengths, aspirations, passion and drive. It is also an opportunity for you to evaluate challenges, so again do not be afraid to discuss areas that have been weaknesses or a challenge, this is all part of the development. 

Ideas of support documents you may wish to bring to the professional discussion

#Appraisals/performance review             #Personal Development Plans                   #Training records 


 

]]> 2018-05-11 12:17:36 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259911281 BBC4 claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259917740 Listen to the clip and how the interviewer expertly asks questions. 

You will notice that the interviews do most of the talking with prompts!]]> 2018-05-11 12:39:29 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259917740 BBC4 _ Retail claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259919260 Listen to the introductions and overview. 
What skills does the interviewer have? ]]> 2018-05-11 12:43:11 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259919260 Self Reflection claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259922233 Observing your own performance]]> 2018-05-11 12:52:01 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259922233 Exercises to help develop critical thinking skills claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259923695 1. Provide scenarios and ask the apprentice to determine outcomes. This will support with cause/affect and looking at different options to resolve a problem. 

2. Use open questions - this can take some practise so prepare your questions prior to the event. 

3. Don't accept the first answer when an apprentice responds to a question, ask them further questions and build on your original  question. 

4. Provide apprentices with a series of statements related to their job - some factual and some opinions.  Ask them to determine the 'truth' and explain why. 

The video below explores questioning techniques.



]]> 2018-05-11 12:57:15 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259923695 Some Apprentices Will Fail at the last hurdle - PD claire1219 https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259928342
  • In our experience, Some apprentices struggle to verbalise themselves, especially where records of learning are incomplete ( Sparse supporting evidence such as learning logs, notes, patchy PDPs) Apprentices who have truly developed over the course of their apprenticeship are able to discuss highs and lows with vigour and provide excellent examples. Some apprentices have commented that they do not think they were given the chance to practise this assessment method. This was particularly evident in the failed PD, the apprentice responded to questioning in a defensive and guarded manner - not fully understanding that this was his moment to shine! 
  • Trainers are sometimes too quick to ask the next question or accept an answer that has not fully covered the criteria to sufficient depth 
  • Trainers need to practise the art of 'silence' so that additional information can be offered. This is a very difficult skill to master as feels unnatural. Explain to apprentices that if there is a void - it means that they need to offer more detail. 
  • Some apprentices who have been overly supported have not been able to engage fully in discussions. It is important that apprentices are active in all aspects of their learning journey.  This may mean honest conversations earlier on in their training programme to tackle issues. 


    • ]]>     2018-05-11 13:09:45 UTC https://padlet.com/claire1219/2vpmgrvrc8i2/wish/259928342