Learning involves patience and time

In the European Culture learning is direct, largely linear, and scientific. What we have learned through our work is that our learners learn in more experiential ways. They are hands on. Learning is more concrete and informal but no less a part of their lives.

Some of our Observations:

• Ask a direct question, be prepared for an indirect answer.
• Relationship is important before learning.
• Students consider every space a place for relationship. Ask about their day, how their family is doing.
• Celebrate their achievements in and out of school.
• Food is important.
• Good stuff is not to be rushed.
• Keep it casual. You may have a student for a year before they admit they need to learn a skill. Expect
  them to come in, ask for one thing, need another, and give them small steps in the right direction.

  Reflections Worksheet: Building Relationships

Strategies for Building Trusting Relationships

• Slip in behind community leaders. Find people who are champions of learning or healing in the community. Use their passion to get a step in the door
• Create relationships with your learners and with the community
• Bring food
• Be prepared to meet many times before you get anywhere. You have to be trusted in order to do what you do
• Take your time
• Create casual learning opportunities. Learning Coaches provide one-on-one learning opportunities that are short term and goal oriented. You may see them in multiple casual learning situations before they stick in a program
• A learner may come back multiple times before they are ready to move forward with an idea or learning