 | This learning module is part 2 of How to Host an Authentic Youth Listening Session. |
Planning Your Listening Session
Hosting a Listening Session does not just happen overnight. There is some preparation involved. Before deciding to host a Listening Session gather your team and identify the goal(s) of your session. After deciding on 1-2 goals, try to identify 3-5 objectives per goal.
Examples of Goals for a Youth Listening Session
- Improving existing forms (intake forms, consent forms, assessment forms, etc.)
- Getting feedback on how to better improve specific services (access to mental health, access to STI testing, etc.)
- Reformatting program services to achieve better/more long-lasting outcomes
- Collaborating with YYAs to identify specific service gaps in your area
After establishing your goals and objectives, identify who will be facilitating the Listening Session. When identifying a Facilitator for your session try to choose someone who has facilitation experience or is someone that YYAs will be comfortable with.
You should also identify a Notetaker. A Notetaker can be a member of staff or a young person participating in the session. Notetakers should gather as much information as possible to be able to identify themes after the session. Notes should be shared with participants as soon as possible after the session (while respecting confidentiality), so YYAs can have the opportunity to correct feedback that was misquoted or misrepresented. Additionally, consider sharing notes in visual formats such as word clouds.
Finally, before deciding to host a Listening Session, programs are encouraged to consider what products you will need to create for the session to be successful.
Products to Consider for a Youth Listening Session
- A Facilitator Guide - While facilitators should be trained and will also have an agenda to help them navigate the Session, some facilitators find having a detailed guide to be helpful.
- Consent/Assent Forms - Collect Consent forms from the caregivers/guardians of minors and Assent forms from youth and young adults before participation. These forms should be as informative as possible.
- Youth Feedback Form - Allow participants to provide anonymous feedback about the session and review the feedback as soon as possible after the session. Use that feedback to adjust your process for future sessions.
- Agenda - This should outline a clear schedule of events and topics for participants and facilitators.
- Visual Supports (such as PowerPoints) - Some people need visual supports to process discussion questions and/or themes.
