Labor Education Service announces 2013-2014 skills courses

The University of Minnesota Labor Education Service is offering six courses on “nuts & bolts” skills important to working people. The 2013-2014 schedule includes an online class, “Introduction to the Labor Movement.”

All classes are non-credit and are open to all. Sessions for in-person classes are held on the West Bank of the University’s Minneapolis campus. Room locations will be sent with registration confirmation.

For more information or to obtain a brochure and registration form, call 612-624-5020 or e-mail les@umn.edu

The 2013-2014 schedule:

Advanced Arbitration Techniques
Saturday, September 21
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Taught by John Remington
This course describes the arbitration process and forum including the preparation and examination of witnesses, the conduct of the hearing, procedural issues and objections, discipline and discharge and contract interpretation case presentations. It also covers the presentation and submission of closing arguments and post hearing briefs. It is designed primarily for students who have taken Basic Arbitration or have actual arbitration experience. Tuition is $50. Registration deadline is September 13.

Unions for All Generations: Engaging Younger Workers
Saturday, November 9
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Taught by Mary Bellman & Jessica Hayssen
One of the most common concerns of union leaders is how to get more young workers active in their unions. How can organizations make young workers feel welcome and ensure that their voices are heard? This class is designed for seasoned labor activists and leaders looking for strategies on how to be inclusive of young workers and to overcome obstacles to organizational change. Tuition is $50. Registration deadline is November 1.

The Law and Social Media
Saturday, January 18
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Taught by John See & Brendan Cummins
Many unions are effectively using social media tools like Facebook, Twitter, Google Hangouts, or interactive web pages in their communications and organizing strategies. The NLRB has made it a priority to protect the rights of workers to use social media in new ways to assert workplace rights. This course will show how some unions are using the tools most effectively, some best practices to follow, how the NLRB and courts have responded, and what your legal rights and risks are on-line. Tuition is $50. Registration deadline is January 10, 2014.

Introduction to the Labor Movement
February 1 to 28
Taught by Randy Croce
This will be taught online. Students will be able to participate from anywhere, at times convenient to them. This introductory class provides an overview of the labor movement – its successes and challenges – in a global context. Learn the structure, organization and evolution of the movement, the impact of union membership on workers and communities and discuss future directions. Tuition is $50. Registration and payment deadline is January 17, 2014. More information on how to access the online course will be sent after registration.

Trade Union Administration
Saturday, March 22
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Taught by John Remington
This course provides union officers and representatives with the principles of management and administration appropriate to unions. Learn about various management styles, union structures and establishing effective committees. Tuition is $50. Registration deadline is March 14, 2014.

Basic Steward Training
Saturday, April 12
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Taught by Tony DeAngelis
This course is designed for the new steward or member who wants to become a steward. Emphasis will be placed on steward roles, rights and duties; grievance investigation, writing, presentation and day-to-day problem solving. Tuition is $50. Registration deadline is April 4, 2014.

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