Engage in communication - ask Simon what he thinks about the situation he is in.
Quality
Excellent communication skills: A practice facilitator who values others is also someone who works well in a team environment and is willing to share his/her success. A good practice facilitator appreciates the on-going effort of the learner and will empower him through positive feedback and reinforcement.
Ask him what he likes i.e. hobbies, or something else outside of work. Encourage two way communication in order to measure whether he is quiet at work or is always quiet. Generally people will talk more openly about something they are good at or have a big interest in.
Quality
Recognise that learners have different motivations, skills, knowledge and needs and be able to capitalise on these.
Give positive feedback for small tasks undertaken well (with supervision).
Quality
Feedback giver: Provide meaningful feedback.
Use role modelling positive body language to in encouragement i.e. eye contact, gestures, head nodding, smiling, open posture.
Quality
Demonstrates a positive attitude and acts as a positive role model: A good practice facilitator exhibits the personal attributes it takes to be successful in the field. By showing the learner what it takes to be productive and successful, they are demonstrating the specific behaviours and actions required to succeed in the field.
Give encouragement for actions taken and for working with others i.e. encouraging team work.
Quality
Values on-going learning and growth in the field: Practice facilitators are in a position to illustrate how the field is growing and changing and that even after many years there are still new things to learn.
Emphasise Simon’s strengths, set goals for other areas which can be developed during the placement – small steps.
Quality
Be good at spotting learning opportunities and challenges which will assist the learner's development. Understand that sometimes it may be necessary to push the learner to move out of their comfort zone.
Give praise in front of other members of the team, stating that Simon is ‘good at xxxx’ and encourage him to work with others whilst carrying out the same task.
Quality
Overall good facilitation requires empowering the learner to develop their own strengths, beliefs, and personal attributes.
Create a positive environment to encourage two way communication between Simon and yourself.
Quality
Good practice facilitators can remember what it was like just starting out in the field.
Identify opportunities available within the work placement that will enable Simon to achieve his competencies.
Quality
Be well informed about the objectives and content of the educational programme being undertaken by the learner in order to provide maximum support.
Use practice situations to stimulate problem solving skills in a safe and supported environment.
Quality
Encourage the learner to think for themselves and work out solutions to problems.