Step 1. What? Content and Format

Ask yourself:

• What are some format options for program presentations?
• What content is best conveyed in any one type of format?
• How does my audience best learn or accept the material that we present?
• How does the audience's learning style dictate the format?

Lecture followed by a one-to-one session

The lecture format, usually followed by a one-to-one session with participants, emerges as the most successful national model for programs on older-driver safety and wellness. It can be adapted to a wide variety of settings and audiences and, by providing both general information and personalized counseling, can achieve the goals of your presentation.

• Large-group (more than 30 people) lecture
  This format works for topics that do not rely on discussion, or as an introductory lecture to a series of programs on a topic. The lecture serves as a foundation for awareness building, which is reinforced by interaction with the audience. A general theme might be Myths and Facts About Older Drivers, Secrets to Coping with Traffic, or Adaptive Equipment for Driving Comfort and Safety. The examples below include lectures followed by questions and answers or lectures followed by opportunities for one-to-one interaction.

  Example - Lecture/Large-Group Format
   

• Small-group interaction
  This format is ideal for topics of interest to a small select audience - for instance, people who have recently retired from driving, caregivers, or drivers who have recently experienced a serious medical illness. Consider the potential for privacy issues in a small-group setting, when participants may share information about their health and/or therapy.

  Example - Small-Group Format
   

• One-to-one sessions
  Although not designed to impact a large number of people, this type of program can achieve your goals and provide positive outcomes on an individual basis. The program may be funded through a grant sponsored by a potential partner. In discussing collaboration with potential partners, you may also find excellent speakers for lectures or other presentations.

  Example - One-to-One Sessions
   

• Extended series of educational sessions
  A series of presentations on driving safety by single or diverse speakers can attract a large audience, especially if there are incentives such as discounts on insurance or reduced costs for special events or programs.

  Example - Extended Series
   

• Community programs for caregivers
  Certain topics, such as Alzheimer's disease, fear of disclosing driving abilities or discomfort in contradicting family member's desires may be more appropriate for caregivers than for patients. Support groups for caregivers operated by other community organizations may include topics on safe driving.

  Since families may have deep concerns about driving and transportation issues, providing classes or support information may prove helpful.

  Example - Community Program for Caregivers

What formats have been successful for other programs and how can those be adapted to provide information about driving?

You may want to review evaluations of previous programs to find the most successful formats. A structured evaluation determines the effectiveness of a program and the lessons learned. Check the evaluation format as well as the content. See Step 6 for more information on evaluation forms.