“Why this program?” Now in its eleventh year, this is a common question from prospective Separation Anxiety Certification Program (SACP) applicants, and for good reason: they now have program choice. It’s also a question I have been thinking a lot about since Malena and I wrapped up co-teaching our last cohort of now-graduated Certified Separation Anxiety Trainers (CSATs) and are actively preparing to welcome a new group of students soon.
There’s no doubt I could give a compelling answer to “why this program” by focusing on Malena’s unmatched expertise and experience, or the rigor of the entrance requirements, or how comprehensive the 15-week curriculum is, or my experiences as a student and now CSAT. I would argue the most compelling answer is the program’s use of collaborative student-centered instructional strategies that draw on and value the unique perspectives and experiences of each cohort member while also effectively preparing them to successfully (and confidently) help dogs (and the people who love them) overcome this debilitating panic issue.
That’s what makes the SACP truly extraordinary. Why? Continue reading to find out.
It Centers You, the Learner
At its core, student-centered learning empowers learners to take an active role in their educational experience. It flips the traditional learning model on its head, shifting the focus from what the teacher is doing to what the student is experiencing, exploring, and achieving. By definition, teachers become students in their own classrooms, actively and constantly adapting and innovating to remain responsive to each learner’s needs as they evolve in real time.
This sort of learning environment is rare and countercultural. It is hard work that has teachers facilitating inquiry and exploration through providing students choice in how they would like to engage in meaningful real-world applications of their learning.
How does this show up in the SACP?
- Nearly every webinar, live discussion group, and homework assignment has students engaging with case studies to develop their technical skills.
- Homework assignments and small group activities support students in applying and refining their learning through practicing with real-world client-counseling dilemmas.
- Whole group discussions center students’ questions, curiosities, and reflections, in addition to us sharing best practices and lessons learned from experience.
In the words of a recent graduate: “I really enjoy spotlighting people and hearing their individual takes and thoughts around something…I get a lot out of it! I enjoyed one of our most recent sessions where people took turns pointing out [how to improve] the missions written. I liked hearing their thought process externalized.”
There’s a Commitment to Continuous Learning and Improvement
This might mean different things to different people in different contexts, which is why I wanted to first define how we think about it with respect to the program experience. By continuous learning and improvement, we mean a dynamic cycle of teaching and learning that values progress over perfection, and views progress as a journey, not a destination.
In other words, learning never stops. It demands curiosity, and necessitates the constant exchange of ideas and diverse perspectives, and improvement requires a commitment to regularly reflect, ask questions, gather feedback, and make incremental positive changes over time. This applies not just to students, but also to us. Remember, we’re learners in our own classroom, which makes it our responsibility to learn with and from each dog professional we have the privilege of teaching.
How does this show up in the SACP?
- There is a continuous feedback loop between students and instructors from day one; it is a communication norm.
- Twice weekly students complete assignments and have the option to share feedback using an exit ticket.
- We provide individualized feedback on every submitted assignment and use exit ticket feedback to inform discussion groups and adjust our practice.
In the words of a recent graduate: “The most helpful for me was the homework to practice the skills and the feedback to help me hone those skills to be able to apply them moving forward.”
And, another, “I just really appreciate how responsive both of you have been, and your willingness to be available to answer additional questions or even re-grade a homework re-do. I have gotten a lot out of that feedback and those conversations.”
You Become Part of a True Professional Learning Community
Simply put, a professional learning community is a group of people with shared goals who support and challenge each other and value learning together to improve their practice. There is shared humility and understanding in the power of the collective experiences and expertise, and relationships are grounded in empathy and mutual respect. What better way than to describe not only each SACP cohort, but the entire CSAT network?
How does this show up in the SACP?
- In each discussion group and feedback exchange, we seek to honor diversity of experience, elevate each learner’s unique assets, and offer support.
- Malena and I openly acknowledge we each bring a unique set of experiences, understandings, and perspectives to our work as co-teachers and so does each student.
- Collectively, we all contribute to the growth and learning of each cohort member (and entire CSAT community).
In the words of a recent graduate: “This was truly an excellent course, so thoughtfully put together, supportive, challenging, professional, and, well, really well-toggled to help your students along without being overwhelmed. Thank you for your time, talent, and just plain kindness. R+ all the way! It was also a true pleasure to spend my class hours with such a compassionate group of trainers.”
TL;DR
Are you wondering, “Why this program? The most concise, clear, honest answer I can offer: Because dogs deserve better, and you deserve the best.
The SACP empowers already-skilled dog behavior professionals to positively impact the lives of dogs struggling with separation anxiety and the people who love them. The evidence lies in the 250+ CSATs around the world already engaging in this transformative work. Start your application to the SACP today: SACP Application Form.
