Session 10

Definition. The Practicum is a simulated, structured experience in the community through which you will test out, reflect on and refine your new leadership and organizing skills. Through your Practicum, you will actually organize something-a group, an action, an event, etc. A Practicum is considered "simulated", because it begins with an issue or concern; in "real" organizing. We take residents through the process of identifying their issues and concerns and proceed from that point with actual demonstration.

You may have an issue, organization, committee, event, idea, or group that you're particularly concerned about. For you, that concern may be the reason you enrolled in the Basic Principles course in the first place. If you have a specific organizing purpose or idea of your own, the Practicum will help you get it moving. We will begin to develop specific ideas and plans for the Practicum early in the course.

Requirements for Practicum Completion

A description of the issue or focus of the practicum and your early thoughts on how to organize it. 10 to 25 one-on-one write-ups, including a summary description of who you talked with, why you selected this person for a one-on-one, Key points on their self-interest and how it relates to your Practicum and if/how you're going to get them involved.

A description of and reflection on one meeting you convene or attend involving the people you've done one-on-ones with. This meeting should include an agenda of "organizing" your Practicum project and action planning around the people you choose to meet with and others that will be involved.

Completed pre-determined assignments or self-determined project assignments for your Practicum. Please include an evaluation and timeline for future progress.