Part III: A check list of Do's and Don'ts
Expectations of a Study Group Co-ordinator
- Try not to cancel a meeting, without a legitimate reason
- Make sure every member / participant knows about the time, place, topic of the meeting, 2 days in advance.
- Stay in front. Never dwindle into the background during a meeting.
- Never discourage participation - unless it does not pertain to the issue at hand.
- Try not to be late to the meetings - and if you are, have a backup.
- Do not set a system of punishment for being late or absent from a meeting.
- Never assume the role of only a leader or coordinator. Be a moderator, tension breaker, commentator.
- Don't digress, ramble, or sidetrack.
- Try to make the Study Group meeting attractive and interesting to members. Create enthusiasm!
- Maintain a firm contact with other Study Group Coordinators to exchange ideas.
- Never allow foul language / behavior to be tolerated during a meeting.
- Never set a bad example - people WILL follow.
- Avoid talking to the group - instead, talk with them.
- Make them love you and Islam!
- Never assume the responsibilities of running the group fully on your shoulders - delegate responsibilities.
- Avoid being in the “Meeting mode" all the time - be conversational.
- Keep it as youth-oriented as possible.
Expectations of Members / Participants
- Respect the decisions of the Study Group Coordinator.
- Never be late to the meetings - call in advance if you expect to be late.
- If given a job or duty, do it willingly, for the sake of Allah.
- Be attentive and don’t be a passive participant. Try to absorb, reflect, and interact.
- Don't digress, ramble, or sidetrack.
- Try to do some study of the topic or verses of the Quran to be discussed at the meeting, before you come.
- Take notes on the presentations or Study Group to stay focused.
- Try to make the other Study Group participants your true friends and brothers/sisters in Islam
- Avoid being disagreeable - "Disagree without being disagreeable."
- Don't speak for the sake of speaking.
- Inform the Study Group Coordinator if you are not coming.
- Try to invite other friends to these Study Groups. Make a target of 5 people.
