Applying Methods - Hosted by IAP2 Canada

Either "Fundamentals of Public Participation and Engagement (Level 1 practitioners)" or "IAP2 Way in Challenging Contexts (Level 2 practitioners)" is a prerequisite for this course. Learn more

Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that focuses on exploring a variety of methods used in implementing public participation and engagement and considers how to design and integrate those methods into the public participation and engagement practice process. Participants will learn to select, assess and create effective elements of methods to work meaningfully with participants.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Course Objectives: 

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process
• Research, design and test a face to face and/or online method using a range of tools and resources
• Apply the four steps of designing a method to incorporate the eight key components of method design
• Develop rational and experiential aims
• Design an appropriate format
• Design questions and process
• Develop appropriate communications
• Combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing
• Incorporate inclusivity and diversity principles
• Identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures
• Identify resources required
• Explore a variety of both face to face and online methods/techniques that include a nested structure of different methods (e.g. deliberative processes, Appreciative Inquiry, Open Space Technology)
• Analyze the specific engagement requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs, and strategies to sequence these methods for delivery
• Identify principles for monitoring online activity
• Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting for peer review using a checklist
• Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing
• Design key messages and know how to use communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences

Target Audience: 

• Practitioners with some public participation and engagement practice experience who are looking to cement their knowledge and skills

Course Delivery:

Online and hosted by IAP2 Canada.

Prerequisite:

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Our Licensed Trainers:

Tracey Ehl brings groups together to explore ideas, opportunities and issues.  She approaches public participation as a learning process, for everyone.  This is based on a belief that individual and collective learning hold great potential for positive, transformative change. 

Tracey has over two decades of professional experience in facilitation, public and stakeholder engagement, environmental communications and environmental and strategic planning.  Tracey’s energetic and attentive style has assisted communities locally and internationally to develop supported, realistic solutions and achieve shared goals. Her project involvement has focused on complex projects in the areas of energy, sustainability, public water system management, municipal planning, transportation and public transit, waste management, wastewater infrastructure, and community development.  Within these projects, Tracey has designed, led and documented hundreds of events and processes to meet the unique needs of each client and the affected stakeholder groups, while managing controversy, outrage and budget limitations, multiple agendas and influences beyond the project.