Lessons learned from the classes so far

(posted by Norm Fadelle & Paul Zilmer)

Lessons learned and Assessment so far:

1. There are people in the Urbana/Champaign community who want to learn more about God's word
2. The Urbana BEC does offer a unique, wanted and meaningful community service — people tell us this directly, including people who don't sign up or buy anything 
3. God sends people on His time, not ours — sometimes we've been disappointed, other times encouraged beyond our expectations
4. We can, must, and do learn from our visitors and from our students — they let us know what they need, we don't tell them what they need
5. It is important to establish a personal relationship from the outset — in the very first class session, or even better, the first time they are in the shop; showing personal interest in them via post-cards has surprised & delighted several
6. We need to continue to be flexible about everything: e.g., hours open, Bible versions, private classes
7. The people who ended up registering for classes learned about the BEC through all the different advertising media we employed — except for leafleting
8. You need a staff of two during open hours, and at least two to manage the evening classes
9. People dropped in just to talk, ask for directions, or borrow bus fare — expecting we would help
10. Refreshments at the classes fostered a friendly setting; one student twice made and brought treats for all
11. The students loved getting a class-completed certificate
12. The time, effort and money spent appear to be worth it, i.e., the BEC prototype shows good promise
13. Our initial cost projections have proven to be pretty close
14. The low-pressure, positive approach does attract students, who do hear fundamental teaching — time will tell what the ultimate outcome will be