Assessment of the Institute

In the second part of the evaluation, participants were asked to assess the nature and format of the Institute. Organizers asked what was most and least useful, and invited suggestions about how future gatherings could be improved. 

What was most useful about the Institute?

Overwhelmingly, participants were delighted with the format of the intensive course over four mornings. People liked working with the same group over time, felt that the course leaders were excellent instructors, and appreciated the positive atmosphere.

The courses themselves were described as holistic, using a process which involved thinking, feeling, moving and laughing. At the same time, there was time and space for doubt and disagreement. The courses were described as "open-minded, collaborative" events which "challenged assumptions".

Participants felt they were able to build a greater sense of community by spending their mornings with the same group of people. As one participant said, this community "is what inspires me and supports me to continue thinking I can do research in practice." The length of the course also allowed people to cover more ground and hear more voices. 

The atmosphere of the Institute was keenly appreciated by many participants. People talked about the "warm atmosphere" and the "richness of conversations". People said they were pushed mentally and stretched emotionally. They also appreciated that the in-depth morning sessions were balanced by the practical focus of the afternoon sessions.

What parts of the Institute were least useful?

Many people felt that the affinity groups were the least effective part of the Institute. They expressed disappointment that the groups were artificial, not focused, had no purpose, or didn't help people bond.

Some participants were also disappointed in the afternoon workshops and inquiry sessions. A few people felt they attended sessions which did not match their descriptions. Others were disappointed that the sessions were a forum for people to describe what they had done.