About the role
Workshop Facilitators play a direct role in delivering The Open Economics Project's educational programs.
Through guided discussions, explanatory sessions, practical activities, and community workshops, facilitators help participants engage with economics in structured and approachable ways.
The position requires both subject understanding and the ability to create a respectful, productive learning environment.
Unlike a purely administrative volunteer role, workshop facilitation involves direct responsibility for the quality of participants' learning experiences.
Facilitators may contribute to online workshops, school-based programs, community events, or other approved OEP educational activities.
The mandate
To deliver engaging, academically responsible economics learning experiences that encourage participants to ask questions, evaluate ideas, and develop stronger economic understanding.
Responsibilities
Session Preparation
- Review the objectives and instructional materials for assigned workshops.
- Prepare a realistic session outline and participant activities.
- Coordinate timing, materials, and delivery arrangements with organizers.
- Identify content requiring academic clarification before delivery.
Educational Facilitation
- Explain economic concepts in a clear and accurate manner.
- Encourage thoughtful questions and balanced discussion.
- Use examples, activities, or exercises to support understanding.
- Adjust explanations appropriately for participant knowledge and age.
Participant Experience
- Maintain an inclusive, respectful learning environment.
- Follow relevant safeguarding and conduct standards.
- Consider accessibility needs and reasonable adjustments within approved arrangements.
- Escalate safety or conduct concerns through designated organizational channels.
Evaluation and Improvement
- Collect or relay appropriate participant feedback.
- Record relevant attendance or delivery information.
- Identify instructional challenges and suggest improvements.
- Participate in brief post-event reviews when requested.
Who we’re looking for
Applicants should demonstrate clear communication, comfort speaking to groups, and a reliable understanding of foundational economic concepts.
Experience teaching, tutoring, leading student discussions, conducting workshops, or facilitating community activities is beneficial.
Formal teaching qualifications are not necessarily required, although some programs may require additional experience, supervision, or screening.
Applicants must be willing to follow approved educational materials and program procedures.
Initial Assignment
Before leading sessions independently, facilitators should:
- Complete the relevant orientation.
- Review the workshop curriculum and delivery expectations.
- Prepare a concise session plan.
- Complete any required safeguarding or program-specific screening.
- Participate in an initial supported, observed, or otherwise approved workshop.
Working together
Workshop Facilitators collaborate with the Chief Events Officer and designated event or academic leads.
Assignments are offered according to program needs and volunteer availability. No fixed number of workshops is guaranteed.
The stated time commitment is a planning baseline for a standard assignment. Actual preparation, travel, delivery, and follow-up requirements should be communicated and agreed upon before accepting an event.
Why it matters
Educational resources become more powerful when learners can question, discuss, and apply what they encounter. Workshop Facilitators help create the environment in which that learning can take place.