Read the scenario and answer the questions.

Thinking Outside of the Box

As part of their ongoing commitment to professional learning and innovation and after considering a detailed proposal from Director Kate, the committee of Blue Bay Early Learning Centre have funded a series of 2 workshops for employees. The workshops are held on a Saturday and are 3 weeks apart. Time-in-lieu was negotiated for all participants. The venue is a resort with a conference room and outdoor area overlooking the ocean. The workshops begin with simple chair yoga and mindfulness. Morning tea and lunch are served outdoors.

The theme of the workshops is 'Thinking Outside of the Box'. Workshops are facilitated by a wide range of professionals such as a physiotherapist, architect, landscape architect, Aboriginal elder, local artist and gallery curator, horticulturalist and environmentalist, customer service manager, etc. Director Kate wanted the team to be exposed to many ways of thinking and problem-solving as well as different ways of understanding, seeing, and doing.

The joint presentation by the architect and landscape architect was presented using images, sounds, texture and colour to explore how the built environment impacts on our thinking and wellbeing. The presenters challenged the team to think of creative ways to use the centre's environment in ways that enhance the wellbeing of employees, children, and families.

Over the two days the team was asked to record any ideas or possibilities that came to mind as they participated in the workshops. By the end of the second day this list was quite extensive. As a follow-up, team members were asked to choose three ideas to work on and develop over the coming weeks. Kate suggested these ideas be brainstormed/workshopped at the next team meeting.

Team members were also asked to explore their own thinking and creativity by reflecting on and responding to three questions related to their work role

The team was asked to write their responses in a set of blank stars which were displayed in the room. Director Kate told the team that she would make a time to talk to each team member about their response and explore possibilities.

The committee have also allocated funds to redecorate the staffroom, buy new furniture and create an outdoor paved seating area adjacent to the staffroom.

a. Suggest two ways the professional development program overcame some of the barriers related to innovation in children's education and care services?