TTUTA’s Study Circle

Ms. Patricia Villafana, Study Circle Coordinator

Membership education has a major role to play in the development processes of organizations. It is one of those mechanisms used in the development of human skills and knowledge and is a major influence on the moulding of values and attitudes in the organization, and indeed, in the wider society.

The Study Circle is one of the methods used by TTUTA in the education of its membership. It is a small voluntary group of persons who meet regularly in an informal atmosphere. Teachers who become part of study circles share the common objective of learning more about the Association, about the laws and regulations which govern the Teaching Service and about other specific and general issues pertaining to their roles as TTUTA members and members of the teaching profession. The ideal size of a Study Circle is between five and ten members. Specially trained convenors guide the circle.

The Study Circle has been found to be a less expensive, quicker and effective way of achieving results. It has been recognised as one of the most up-to-date forms of adult education, with the best outward potential for providing a forum where people can develop together into active members of a democratic community.

The aims of TTUTA’s Study Circle are as follows:

1. To implement a systematic method of educating the rank and file membership.

2. To raise the trade union consciousness of the membership with a view to involving them in the activities and decision-making processes of the Association.

3. To further the process of democracy both within the Association and in the national community.

4. To increase interaction and improve interpersonal relationships among members of the Association.

5. To develop solidarity among members of the Association, so as to avoid dissipation of efforts and resources.

6. To help the Association receive feedback from the membership on issues that are local or national in character.

7. To increase the members’ awareness of their rights and responsibilities as workers.

8. To develop a sense of professionalism among the membership.

9. To enable members to develop the attitude of questioning the relevance of facts and issues.

10. To develop the specific skill handling informal group sessions among members.

For more information on the Study Circle Programme, please Email Ms. Patricia Villafana, TTUTA’s Study Circle Coordinator at or contact her at 645-2134; 645-3825 or 663-2738.