Presentations & Workshops

These presentations and workshops will be offered twice on TRU's Professional Development Day on February 22, 2012.

The first group of sessions is at 10:45am and the second at 11:30am.

Dealing with Disturbing Student Behaviour: Strategies and Resources

The impact of encountering unusual and/or disturbing student behaviour can cause us distress and feelings of helplessness. This interactive workshop will provide participants with the opportunity to discuss strategies and resources which will assist you in managing your reactions and responses.

Presenters: David Lidster, Duane Seibel, Marge Huntley

In the School of Life, Everybody gets an 'A' for Anxious: I think therefore I Worry

The quote "I think, therefore I worry" correctly implies that anxiety is a part of being human. While anxious feelings may be somewhat unpleasant to severely unpleasant; they can be viewed as “do something" emotions that helps motivate you. This workshop will focus on the causes of anxiety and strategies to manage anxiety that helps you thrive rather than just survive.

Presenter: George Wiehahn

How to Deal with People You Can’t Stand

Based on the book by Dr. Rick Brinkman & Dr. Rick Kirschner, this session provides a humorous look at the difficult people we encounter both at work and in our daily lives. From the Tank to the They Think They Know It All, you will meet ten challenging personality types and learn to identify the intent that motivates their behaviour along with practical skills to survive them.

Presenter: Melanie Reed

Sleep and Presenteeism: An Issue of Public Health

This presentation will explore the financial, social and environmental impact of sleep deprivation in the modern world.

Presenter: Les Matthews

Bringing the Good Eye to Work. Using Appreciative Inquiry to create a positive, energized and productive work environment.

When facing challenges in our organizations our default is typically towards problem identification, analysis and resolution. The problem solving or deficit approach can be very appropriate in some situations, but there are other times when a more possibilities or appreciative approach can create a better return on investment. When we bring the “good eye” to work we have the opportunity to create more self-sustaining and energizing outcomes that are based on what is working and the natural strengths and abilities of those involved. An appreciative mindset helps us to build on our collective experience and learning while we continue to adapt and move forward; it requires reflection and honors the past in the name of progress and getting better.

Presenter: Shannon McQuillan.

Finding Peace While Raising Teenagers

Are you looking for ideas on how to lessen the friction that can occur in a household with teenagers? This workshop will provide an opportunity to learn and discuss the skills which will help you maintain a peaceful home environment while your teenager works through the tasks associated with adolescence.

You can create a trusting, respectful atmosphere in your home and, as a result, ease the transition from childhood to adulthood for your teenager.

Presenter: Maureen Simpson

Exercise Boosts Brain Power

Exercise has so many benefits, it’s the closest thing we have to a magic bullet. Recent findings link the release of brain chemicals during muscle contraction with brain cell growth and improved cognition. Our brains were built for moving! Whether you walk, bike, swim, take a class at the gym, or do yard work or housework, it all contributes to a healthier brain. Yet, we’ve built our classrooms and cubicles around sitting for eight hours a day. In this session, we will explore how we can integrate exercise into our eight hours of work or school.

Presenter: Karen Ross