Workshop Structure

Each session can be tailored to the individual needs of your audience.  That said, a typical workshop session would include the following components:

The Introduction to the topic

The introduction answers the question “Why are we talking about this?” and is particularly important for letting the participants know that the information really is relevant to their lives.  The introduction lasts around 5 minutes, and I find it very helpful and informative to pose thought-provoking, open-ended questions to the participants at this time. Questions are usually as simple as “What have you heard about STIs?” or “What do I mean when I say “STI”?” These initial questions serve two purposes: to get the participants thinking about whatever topic we are discussing, and to give me an idea of how familiar they are with the subject matter.

Talking about sex can be awkward and uncomfortable, and I work to alleviate this discomfort for workshop participants.  I speak openly and honestly with participants and use fun icebreaker activities to ease any tension they may be experiencing.

The Lesson

The lesson is structured to answer several relevant questions regarding the material.  For example, a lesson about STIs would cover information such as: What are STIs?  How are STIs transmitted?  What kinds of STIs are there?  Are STIs curable?  How do I know if I have an STI?  What happens if I have an STI and I don’t get treated?

The lesson is interactive and encourages dialogue within the group.  I prefer to integrate any questions that come up into the lesson itself, rather than saving them for a “question and answer” period.  This allows for continuous learning in a more comfortable, informal environment.  As the participants become more comfortable talking openly about topics related to sexuality, they will often begin asking questions – and answering questions as well!  Although the first session or two is usually fairly quiet, this part of the lesson becomes increasingly lively over the course of the workshop.

The Activity

This is the fun part!  Each activity is interactive and gives the group members an opportunity for hands-on learning.  The activity is structured to fit with the topic and typically involves incentives (it’s amazing what a small reward can do!).  For example, I have a variety of trivia-type questions and activities including Contraceptive Connection and STI Showdown.  The difficulty level of the questions can be adjusted depending on the “age and stage” of the audience.

The Wrap-up

The wrap-up consists of a brief summary of what the group has learned about, and an opportunity for the participants to ask any questions which have not already been addressed.  This is the time when I ask for feedback from the group (e.g. have them fill out a brief evaluation form) and distribute any informational materials (such as contact information for the local Public Health Unit).  At this time, I offer a small “thank you” to the participants as well.  I typically have some food available as well, such as fruit and veggie trays.  I always have condoms available and encourage the group participants to take as many as they wish.

Other information …

The casual “after workshop” time when the participants are milling around, eating and talking, is often the time when individuals or small groups approach me with additional questions or to talk privately.  I welcome and encourage this interaction and I always wait at least 15 minutes before beginning to pack up, just in case.

I am always equipped with a variety of resources and learning materials, including info cards, pamphlets, books, flipcharts and posters.  In addition, I use a teaching kit filled with samples of all kinds of contraceptives, including (but not limited to!) several varieties of The Pill, male and female condoms, an IUD, a cervical cap, a sponge and different forms of spermicide.  And of course, I work condom demonstrations into several workshop sessions and offer an opportunity to try putting a condom on “Mr. Woody” to whomever wants to do so!

Throughout my education as a Child and Youth Worker, I have developed interpersonal skills which are crucial to fostering positive interactions with audience members.  As well, I have received training in group dynamics and group facilitation, which are extremely important to effective sexual health education.  I request feedback after each workshop session, which has been consistently positive regardless of the topic discussed.

For more information about my workshop, please contact me.

I look forward to hearing from you soon!

- Candice