This past week Immerse Journal published the first of three articles they asked me to write to help youth workers understand how research works, where to find it, and then how to engage research for themselves. Though youth workers love to use research, it’s not a topic that rivets their attention (as you can see by the lack of comments). Yet I find that we in youth ministry say things about teens that aren’t supported by research findings, or even contradicts what is actually happening with teens today. And we look ill-informed to adults when we do that and we perpetuate urban legends.
This fall I am leading a seminar at each of the National Youth Workers Conventions on research and adolescence. I have worked to pack it full of the best stuff out there that will be the most helpful for youth workers, from volunteers to veterans. And will be teaching the seminar in an interactive fashion to keep it fresh and engaging (it IS a Sunday afternoon after all).
So, as I finalize the presentation in the coming days (yes, I’m using Prezi!), I’d love to get your input: As a youth worker, what research topics would you want to hear about in such a seminar? What other tips/directives would you give me for those 90 minutes?
If you could drop a comment here with your insights, I’d appreciate it. And I’ll figure out some way to acknowledge you (and even get you involved?) as well if we address your topic (which I will surely try to do, of course!).
Thanks,
Terry
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