Pathways with Patricia – webinar

 

This Zoom webinar, led by Patricia from the District 71 Pathways team, provides a comprehensive introduction to the Toastmasters Pathways educational program. The session included a live demonstration, guidance for new and existing members, and a robust Q&A covering common and advanced Pathways topics. — 1. Introduction

• A brief Pathways overview
• Live demo of Base Camp and Learning Hub
• A Q&A session

2. Pathways Overview & Navigation:

• How to access Base Camp via the Toastmasters website
• Explanation of the three main tabs: Base Camp, Learning Hub, and Achievements
• Overview of how to select a path (via self-assessment or browsing all options)
• Current available paths (six in total):

• Dynamic Leadership
• Engaging Humor
• Motivational Strategies
• Persuasive Influence
• Presentation Mastery
• Visionary Communication

3. Level Structure Explained:

• Five levels per path; each includes required and elective projects
• Level 1 includes the Icebreaker, Speech Purpose, Vocal Variety, and Evaluation/Feedback projects
• Level 2 contains projects like communication/leadership styles, mentoring, and active listening
• Levels 3-5 include electives and require increasing complexity and leadership tasks

4. Using Pathways Effectively:

• Importance of engaging with educational materials
• Evaluation forms and how to access/share them
• Encouragement to complete levels sequentially, especially for new members
• Explanation of how evaluation and feedback works, including evaluation of the evaluator

5. Tips for Success:

• Keep a notebook for speech ideas
• Don’t fear the Icebreaker – do it early
• Use Base Camp resources (like evaluation forms)
• Use the Navigator and Toastmasters Magazine for further support
• Engage with club VPEs and other clubs to find speaking opportunities

Key Questions Asked and Patricia’s Answers:

1. Is the first path free?

Yes. While it may display a $20 value, the first path is free for new members.

2. Is there a fixed structure to projects? No strict structure, but each project includes guidance and learning objectives. Most allow wide interpretation to suit the speaker’s interest.

3. Can I get credit for past speeches? Only if you haven’t received credit for them before and have been evaluated by a Toastmaster.

4. Evaluation & Feedback Project – What is required?

• Deliver a speech, receive feedback
• Deliver the speech again, applying the feedback
• Evaluate another Toastmaster
• Receive an evaluation of your evaluation

5. What is the suggested pace of progress?

Pathways is self-paced. Set realistic personal goals. Avoid rushing; balance speeches with club roles.

6. How do I see all the projects in a path? Open each project via Base Camp and review the “Assignment” and “Overview” tabs.

7. How many speeches in Level 1? Five speeches total:

• Icebreaker
• Speech Purpose
• Vocal Variety
• Two speeches in Evaluation & Feedback

8. How soon should I give my Icebreaker?

As soon as possible. Delaying can increase fear. Members are encouraged to speak early and often.

9. Can I switch to a different path after Levels 1 and 2? Yes, but you must purchase a new path. Credits do not transfer between paths.

10. Is Easy Speak part of Pathways? No. Pathways is Toastmasters’ official education program. Easy Speak is an agenda and meeting management tool developed independently.

11. How long is an Icebreaker speech? 4-6 minutes. Patricia emphasised that it feels longer than it is but gets easier with experience.

12. Can the same speech be reused across paths? Only if revised or repurposed. Toastmasters should not use the identical speech for multiple credits.

13. How does feedback work in Base Camp? Members can give badges and written feedback to others in their club as a form of encouragement.

14. How do I ensure my club gets DCP credit for my work? Members must submit and VPEs must approve levels in Base Camp. Clubs should do an end-of-year audit to catch any unsubmitted achievements. 

Closing Call to Action:

• Members: Check your progress. Submit all completed levels.
• Club officers: Encourage members to complete outstanding speeches and submit levels.
• Attend other club meetings to find additional speaking slots if needed.