NUI Galway are offering a series of workshops relevant to the Community and Voluntary sector designed to enable participants to further develop and enhance their understanding, knowledge and skills relevant to community development practice and policy in Ireland. This workshop series was developed in response to the continuing education needs of personnel working (paid/unpaid) in community/voluntary and state sectors actively supporting community life in a rapidly changing society.

The first workshop, ‘Groupwork and Community Leadership’ will take place on Wednesday, 25 June from 9.30am- 4.30pm. This module examines the theory and practice of group work and community leadership. It considers group dynamics, communication in groups, effective group processes, conflict management and practical facilitation skills. It also outlines theories on leadership and how community leadership can be developed and supported. Topics covered include: Introduction to Group Dynamics; Effective Group Processes; and Practical Facilitation Skills

On Saturday, 28 June, the second workshop, ‘Understanding Conflict’ will run from 9.30am-4.30pm. This module examines the theory and practice of conflict transformation and peace building. It recognises conflict as an inseparable part of the human interaction which can, when addressed effectively, resolve underlying needs and concerns, build sustainable communities and ultimately lead to peaceful and positive change. Topics covered in this workshop include: Defining Conflict; Responding to Conflict; Resolving Conflict; Mediating Conflict; and Conflict Resolution and Communication.

The workshops are provided on a non-accredited basis. Participants who attend a workshop will receive a Certificate of Attendance and have the option to register for continuing education credit at the reduced rate of €150 per 5 ECTS (normal cost for same €330). Registration for credit with NUI Galway will become available in September 2014-2015.  Such credit, when awarded, may lead to an exemption(s) and a reduction in overall fees at a programme level within a relevant discipline, (such as the Bachelor of Arts in Community and Family Studies).

The costs for the workshops are €30 per individual participant per workshop. A reduced cost of €20 may apply for individuals providing evidence of specific social protection payments, see website for full listing. There is a reduced rate of €40 for two individuals from the same group/organisation per workshop.

Final date for registration is Friday, 20 June. Further information and registration forms are available from NUI Galway’s Community Education Office at091 495241 or community.ed@nuigalway.ie. Registration forms may also be downloaded from: http://www.nuigalway.ie/courses/adult-and-continuing-education-courses/communityandvoluntarysectorworkshopseries/

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