Jan
11
Written by:
Different Voice
1/11/2010 7:00 AM
Several of the programs on my computer open with a pop-up window informing me of the “tip of the day”. Every time I use the program I am offered short, concise information about the program’s capabilities, possibilities or time-saving shortcuts. Some of these tips contain information that I either already know, or do not need. However, many times, I am reminded of something that I knew at one time or I learn something new! I admit that I usually don’t watch the tutorials or read the “getting started” information when I put a new program on my computer, but I do read these tips. It only takes a short amount of time to read the tip or to close the window when the information does not apply to the way I use the program.
The other day when one such tip of the day popped up on my computer I thought of Sunday School teacher training. Most churches (hopefully) hold teacher training events in the fall. Fall is a logical time to offer teacher training. Now, however, it is January. A lot has happened in the lives of Sunday School teachers since August or September. The information presented at teacher training has likely been buried below other papers (if presented in written form) or among other information (if presented in oral form).
Enter the Teacher Tip of the Week. Each week on a specific day, email teachers information on an aspect of teaching Sunday School. There are always new things to learn. And reminders are useful, too. Keep it brief. You want them to read it! Send the teacher tip separate from other informative emails. This approach will decrease the possibility that the tip will get overlooked.
Great idea, you think, but where do I get the tips to send each week?
- Look over the material that you use for your fall teacher training event. Send a short summary of the topics that you covered at that time.
- Once you establish the Tip of the Week, invite teachers to send you information or “words of wisdom” that they have found helpful while teaching Sunday School.
- Browse the archives of Teacher Training emails (Mondays) on the Different Voice website. (We have written almost sixty teacher training emails at this point.) When you find information you’d like to share with your teachers, forward them the link to the article.
Here are a few suggestions of Different Voice emails to get you started. There are more where these came from! Additionally, encourage teachers to use Different Voice when looking for information and ideas. They can also sign up to receive the Daily Voice.
~Sally Hoelscher
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