How do you start a course?
A basic requirement for the course is two recommendations from two different trainers of the association. Those interested in the course should inform the trainer at the beginning of a Group dynamics seminar (“Training group”, “T group”) that they are interested in a recommendation. Ideally, you should ask the trainer how this request will be handled before the seminar begins. At the end of the seminar, the interested party will be informed in a joint reflection discussion whether a written course recommendation can be given or not.
How long does the course take?
One of the basics of a course at ÖGGO is to organize it yourself, at your own pace, together with experienced group dynamics professionals. As a result, it is difficult to precisely state the duration of the individual course. However, there is specific path to be completed consisting of an interplay of practical parts and theoretical elements (course regulations). It is important to coordinate the availability of course places and appointment options with your own individual situation.
The course concludes with full membership in the association. Until then, our “candidates” experience their own socialization in the association and take part in the joint development of group dynamics.
What are the costs?
Costs for the individual elements of the training course (see course regulations) include:
- Participation in theory seminars
- Board & lodging at co-training and supervised training sessions.
- Supervision hours of consultations or training sessions.
- Participation and board & lodging during the candidate group sessions: 3 modules (the total costs depend on the number of participants)
Where do courses take place?
Courses take place throughout Austria (including: Vienna, Graz, Hernstein, Klagenfurt, Linz, Reichenau/Rax, St. Wolfgang im Salzkammergut), in Switzerland (St. Gallen, Flüeli OW) and in Germany (Berlin)
Can breaks be taken during the course?
Since this is a self-management course, executed at your own pace, you can take a break as you feel necessary. The basis of the course is membership in the association. Membership itself cannot be suspended – the fee (180.00 annually) has to be paid on an ongoing basis.
What is the relationship between theory and practice?
The course offers a balanced relationship between theory and practice, whereby the theory to be acquired forms the basis for the actual practice. Both are interlinked and build on each other from the beginning of the course.
Is it a requirement to have some experience in group work?
The course empowers candidates to provide qualified work with groups and organizations, and that is exactly its purpose. Therefore, you do not need to have (actively) worked with groups and organizations at the time the course commences. The two recommendations that are prerequisites for membership in the association are to be acquired in training groups and thus already provide a little experience.
Which fields of work does the ÖGGO course open up?
All fields of work that involve groups or organizations. Members of ÖGGO work as trainers, consultants, managers, in projects, as therapists, in educational institutions, in teaching and research at universities, and many other areas.
What are the chances of being able to work in this area?
Given the broad spectrum of the various fields of work, there is quite a demand for competence in group dynamics.
At what age should the one ideally begin the course?
The ÖGGO course can be started during studies or on a part-time basis for professionals.
What is the average age of the members in the course?
The currently active candidates were born between 1959 and 1994.
Which formal stages do you go through in the course to become a trainer in group dynamics?
The different stages are candidate, extraordinary member, full member, and lecturer. For more details see the course regulations.