It is so important to send our survey's immediately following a course and we do this with each course we teach. Although I have consistently been rated as 5 out of 5 stars, I very much appreciate the time people take to give comments and we take them into account as we continuously plan better ways to deliver services. Recently I attended the Canadian Domestic Homicide Prevention Conference for four days and then revamped my Power Imbalances course and taught it for the following three days. The convention was powerful, in particular because many survivors and family members of victims shared their stories. It was deeply moving and inspiring in terms of wanting to do my part to ensure mediators screen effectively. That's why I was particularly grateful to see some really positive feedback come in from the surveys from this course, like this one: "Jennifer is really sensitive, an intuitive. 5 star rating attributed to the trainer's insights on racial issues and LGBTQ issues, including microaggressions and trans issues. More importantly, the intersections for those with multiple memberships to marginalized communities." Another participant commented: " Jennifer’s skill, knowledge and competence are weaved throughout the course materials and her stories".
- We also received the highest ratings about our role play coaches, confirming that they were very knowledgeable and helpful. We use a role play coach in groups of three throughout our trainings. One attendee commented that they really appreciated the exposure to a variety of mediators through role play coaching and another commented, "She was very encouraging and positive. Rather than frame things as criticisms, she showcased an alternative method or approach by illustrating her own acting out in the roleplay and characterized it as what she might try in that situation. Such a classy lady - this was conducive to an overall positive learning experience."
Although we greatly appreciate such positive feedback, we also received some helpful comments, as set out here: " Great course! Really appreciated the content that captured race and sexual orientation. In the future, I would like to see more content about DV directly against vulnerable children (step-children, LGBTQ children, adopted or fostered children, etc.). I think there should be a focus on some other forms of power imbalances: same sex relationship where one is out and the other is not and that is weaponized against the non-out spouse. Cultural stigma where marital problems are frowned upon and involves an interracial couple. I've had cases where the perpetrator is a prominent member in the community (police officer, wealthy, etc.) and how victims can navigate those situations where systemic bias can prevent them from disclosing the abuse."
This was very thoughtful feedback and although it is very difficult to cover everything we would like to in three (3) days, we are going to continue to try harder! The survivors and the families of the victims deserve our very best.
Jennifer Suzor, LL.B.
Accredited Family, Child Protection and Elder Mediator (OAFM)
Certified Advanced Practitioner Mediator (APFM)
Lead Trainer and President, Insightful Mediation Training
3231 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor, Ontario, N8W 1H2 Telephone 519.252.2772 Facsimile 519.945.0010
