The next morning, we discussed different design possibilities for a poster to represent the project, outlined options for the final documentation, answered specific questions, and met one more time in the small documentation groups. Finally, everyone completed an evaluation of the workshop and said good-bye. In their evaluations, women discussed the different parts of the workshop: reporting on individual programs and activities, developing documentation, participating in issue-oriented workshops and discussion groups, and having time for informal conversations. While the overwhelming response was positive, many women talked about needing to get away from the intensity of discussion by having more time to relax or to take part in physical activities. A few women wanted us to be more action-oriented. They felt impatient that we didn't move on from talking about women's experience to doing something about it. We sometimes felt frustrated by the lack of problem-solving approaches to specific questions, especially with regard to getting things to work when we go home. The two main modes of communication seemed to be venting and listening/ responding sympathetically to what was being vented. Others felt not enough time was spent talking about the actual mechanics of the research. Although most gained confidence about how they might document their own program work, others felt "fuzzy" or anxious that they didn't know what would be expected from them. For most, the comments focused on the sheer exhilaration of having time, space, encouragement, and safety to talk about some of the most difficult aspects of literacy work. They appreciated not only the stimulation, but the opportunity to "bridge ideological gaps at our own pace, on our own grounds, not as polarized groups." I blabbered on. Getting out all the words that I don't/can't get out at home. Massive eruption. The conversations in this group are like no other. I enjoyed them, found strength in them, learned from them. |
| Back | Contents | Next |