1. Needs Assessment Five Points of Entry 4-H Service-Learning Initiative Trainings Ruston and Crowley July 2005

2. Transform Existing Program Identify existing project or activity Examine for learning opportunities Exchange resources & ideas Example: Canned Food Drive

3. Standard Curriculum Identify specific content and skill Area supports learning Look for additional learning opportunities Example: Learning Citizenship through discussion with elected officials

4. Theme or Unit Begin with broad theme or topic Identify specific content and skill area Select a service application Example: Childhood obesity Cancer

5. Student-Identified Identify student skills, talents and interests Students define problem, need Students lead implementation Example: Transform empty lot into playground

6. Community-Identified Community request assistance Adults, students and community partners identify learning opportunities Example: Tutoring

7. Most people are mirrors, reflecting the moods and emotions of the times. Some people are windows, bringing light to bear on the dark corners where troubles fester. Sydney J. Harris

8. Types of Needs Assessments Surveys Focus Groups Door-to-Door Canvassing Interviews

9. Focus Groups & Interviews SurveyFocus Group Interview PopulationWide cross- section of people Group discussion One-on-one conversation Types of Questions Multiple choice, Ratings, Rankings, Open-ended 10 – 15 open-ended questions DemographicsOptional: Name, age, race/ethnicity, contact information Recording information Survey Instrument Notes

10. Designing Questions Design questions that help respondents consider their ideal community Include questions that provide an opportunity for respondents to identify the challenges of reaching the ideal and reflect on the needs of the community

11. Tips for Success Ask a variety of people, even those you dont know to get a more well- rounded picture of the needs Be prepared to explain what the survey/focus group/interview is about, why it is important, and how the results will be used in a few short sentences Try to be unbiased