It’s been an unusual year hasn’t it. I don’t know about you, but I’ve learned all kinds of new skills: coaching via zoom, how to set up online courses…..
One of the bizarrely unexpected benefits that the pandemic has brought has been the proliferation of webinars, online conferences and so on. I don’t know about you, but I do find it handy being able to keep up my CPD (continuing professional development) requirements from the comfort of my home, through my laptop or phone. I particularly like it when the recordings are available online for a period of time after the event! I don’t miss the traveling, flights, car hire, having to organise horse care while I’m away and so on. But I do miss the opportunity to meet up with my colleagues in the flesh, to chat over coffee or lunch, or pre-conference dinners. But technology has come to the rescue there too! I don’t do Facebook, as you know, but I’ve found whatsapp groups great for keeping in touch with colleagues.
I was delighted when the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors, of which I’m a Full member, invited me to speak at their virtual Equine Conference. I get to talk about a subject that is very close to my heart, the lessons that the field of Psychology can share with equestrian coaches, particularly in respect to learning theory, motivation and emotion.
Of course I’m not the only speaker! We have an excellent line-up. Anna Haines, regular magazine contributor, is speaking on the role of the behaviourist in the field of welfare. Loni Loftus will be presenting on her latest academic research looking at how we can measure positive aspects of equine welfare. And Roxane Kirton, RSPCA Senior Equine Clinician will be talking about pain and behaviour.
Each speaker will be available for a Q and A session after their presentation. And of course attendance at the conference is worth valuable CPD points for members of ABTC, IAABC and BHS APC’s.
The booking details can be found at https://www.apbc.org.uk/Events/virtual-equine-conference/
Act quickly though, book today: the conference takes place tomorrow!
Don’t worry if you’re going to be busy tomorrow, you will have access to the recordings for thirty days afterwards, to watch at your leisure.
There’s an extra bonus for those of you interested in further online education opportunities. I am awarding conference delegates with a coupon for 50% off my online courses, including my newest ‘Bitesize’ course on learning and emotions/ motivation due to launch on 21st December but available for enrollment from now. That’s a discount well worth the cost of the conference ticket!!
Thank you!
Helen
Spence Horse Sense 