Learn to lead effective, efficient meetings with IU Kokomo microcredential

Learn how to run an efficient, effective meeting – and earn a digital badge – with Indiana University Kokomo’s Achieve Improve Master (AIM) microcredential program.

Join Edwin Faunce, adjunct instructor of communications, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. June 25 and June 26 to learn how to use Robert’s Rules of Order and basic parliamentary procedures to run meetings, take votes, keep minutes, and other skills. Registration is open until June 18 at this link.

Faunce said the skills learned will benefit people who serve on public boards or nonprofit organizations, as well as those who attend board meetings and want a better understanding of how they function so they can participate more productively.

“If you are on a board, you will understand why things are done in a certain way,” he said. “Having this knowledge protects you and gives you peace of mind that you did what you were supposed to do.”

For those attending meetings – especially those who want to speak or ask questions – it provides an understanding of the procedures.

“The system is there to help everyone have a voice, but you have to do it within the rules,” Faunce said. “That’s what our democracy is: You get to say what you want within reason, particularly to those in power. There are certain ways to do that. Robert’s Rules are designed to guide fair discussion, nurture an environment where civil disagreements can thrive, and act as a group through votes and other mechanisms.”

Faunce said the sessions will consist of a short lecture, followed by role playing in simulated meetings with an agenda and objective to practice the skills learned.

“You will get a lot of experience from it,” he said. “If you’re doing 90 minutes of six- or seven-minute meetings, you’re working hard and will definitely learn from it.”

The cost is $125 for the two-day program. Participants who successfully complete the sessions will receive a verified skills digital badge from IU Kokomo, which can be used on LinkedIn or in a digital portfolio.

The session is part of IU Kokomo’s AIM program, which offers non-credit-bearing microcredentials called badges. Microcredentials are competencies or certifications in a topic area that can be used to upskill and advance in interpersonal skills or technology, or to equip people to take on new roles or leverage new tools.

IU Kokomo has previously offered microcredentials in faith community nursing and Essentials of Leadership. Leah Nellis, vice chancellor for innovation and special projects, said additional microcredential programs are in development and are projected to be available by the fall 2025 semester. Individuals can enroll directly in existing microcredential programs. However, programs can also be created upon request to meet the needs of local businesses and organizations.

Programs can range from brief programs to year-long or semester-long series. They can be delivered in person, by video conference, online, or in a hybrid format.

For more information contact Nellis at lmnellis@iu.edu.