News and Views

A Timely Transformation for the Instructor-of-Trainers (IOT) Certification Process

Heads up!  We have taken the first step to transform the IOT Certification Process; we’re expanding our focus from training to learning for all Girl Scout adults. The current IOT Certification Process will officially end July, 2008 – exactly three years from the last time the IOT course was offered. Please continue to submit new practicums and applications for recertification. They will be reviewed and certificates of ompletion will be awarded up to July 1, 2008. In addition, we will be offering a possible replacement of the IOT course at Macy, June 4-7, 2007.

The transformation of the IOT Certification Process coincides with the many other transformations within Girl Scouting, including the New Leadership Development Program for girls, the exploration of different volunteer support systems, and the recent and ongoing jurisdictional changes to create high-capacity councils. We want to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to upgrade our current training systems to a more multifaceted learning system.

We welcome your input. You may submit your ideas and suggestions to IOTideas@girlscouts.org

• Let us know what you think the content of the IOT replacement should include.
• What are the basic competencies anyone needs to support adult development in your council?
• What should your structure look like?
• Is "trainer" the right term for today?  If no, then what should it be?
• How can we transition trainers to a new updated system?
• Here is a recently piloted model as a possible replacement for the ELC, as a design and delivery template.

ADA= Activate, Debrief, Apply
This is a simple three step model and would address some of the concerns from some people regarding the cumbersome nature of the ELC.