Arnie P., Sept. 30, 2022
Toastmasters need language overhaul. Not all words mean the same thing to different people. Past president, Pat Johnson, making reference to her experience, said that the word PATHWAYS has a turn off effect on most members. These members prefer the word CURRICULUM instead.
Another word that has not been welcomed with glee is the word EVALUATION. Members suggested FEEDBACK as a replacement, having less aggressive overtones. More words in Toastmasters need substitutes to avoid adverse reactions from diverse and sensitive members. It’s about time, a stylebook like those of the Associated Press and New York Times be adopted for communicators and leaders. It helps to be fittingly appropriate.
I’ve never liked Pathways as a description. At best, it’s only cute. Worse was Base Camp — super cute and esoteric— now gone as a dubious reference to something. Together, both words conjured up images and feelings that have nothing to do with my pursuit in public speaking. And I agree about Evaluation. But is there an alternative word to describe the role of Evaluator? Feedbacker? Maybe Toastmasters should coin their own words. They already have Table Topics®️ as a registered trademark.