ToastmastersAn Ethnography of a CoP

Elements of a CoP!

• Do they all have a shared interest in one particular area?

• Is there a common learning goal?

• Is there a means of sharing basic knowledge to newcomers?

• Is there a way that the group is building their shared understanding?

• Are there forms of social interactions and communication among members?

• Is there a known leader or master of knowledge?

• Is there reference to outside sources for creating / benchmarking on standards of practice?

Do they all have a shared interest in one particular area?

Toastmasters Mission: We provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which

members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in

greater self-confidence and personal growth.

Is there a common learning goal?

Shared Learning Goal: Become better speakers and

communicators

Is there a means of sharing basic knowledge to newcomers?

Getting started: Easy to navigate website with necessary information for newcomers

to get started. Videos, manuals, and articles share basics for newcomers.

Is there a way that the group is building their shared understanding?

Shared Understanding: the group uses formal feedback tools and evaluations to

help build a shared understanding of a great speech and to help all members improve.

Are there forms of social interactions and communication among members?

Social: Westside Toastmasters meets once per week on Wednesday evenings and maintains an e-mail newsletter to keep everyone informed of club events and role assignments for the next

meeting.

Is there a known leader or master of knowledge?

Leader: each meeting has a “Toastmaster” as master of ceremonies and the club has several officers at all

times including club president.

Is there reference to outside sources for creating / benchmarking on standards of

practice?

Benchmarking: Westside Toastmasters is part of Toastmasters International which provides clear guidelines and

practices for running an individual club.