Many of you have extensive experience as Powerful Tools for Caregivers (PTC) class leaders and master trainers. Monitoring fidelity when leading PTC classes is a vital aspect of ensuring that the curriculum is consistently and faithfully implemented. Since you work as a team with at least two licensed class leaders, there is a built-in opportunity for fidelity monitoring within a series. Collaborate with your co-class leader(s) to provide feedback and coaching based on your observations, addressing any concerns or discrepancies in the implementation of the PTC program. This approach promotes accountability and fosters shared learning among class leaders.

Here are some key elements of delivering PTC with fidelity, which sometimes might be overlooked but are essential for maintaining the program's integrity:

1. Sit While Leading the Series: Sitting while leading the series helps establish an atmosphere of togetherness and partnership with participants.
2. Follow the Script: Sticking to the program's script enhances the curriculum's effectiveness. The more you practice and prepare, the more engaging and impactful your delivery will be.
3. Wear the Same Nametag as Participants: Use the same nametag as participants, rather than your agency's nametag. This helps you be seen as a facilitator rather than an authoritative figure.
4. Allocate Time for Action Plans: Research indicates that action plans are the most commonly used tool after the class. Make sure to leave ample time for participants to work on their action plans.
5. Repeat Participant Contributions for Co-Class Leader Scribing: During brainstorming sessions, repeat what participants say for your co-class leader who is taking notes. This repetition allows time for effective documentation.
6. Use Yes/No Responses During Solution-Seeking: When seeking solutions, ask for simple yes or no responses to steer away from discussions about what will or won't work.
7. No Guests or Observers: While guests or observers are not permitted, you may allow a special guest to share before or after the class, with the understanding that this is optional and not part of the core class experience.
8. Recommended Minimum of Eight Participants: Encourage a minimum of eight participants, both in virtual and in-person classes. This ensures a group dynamic, even if occasional absences or drops occur.
9. Hybrid Delivery Not Allowed: PTC class leader trainings and six-week community classes must be delivered entirely either virtually or in-person.
10. Requirements for Class Leader Training: Professionals and volunteers in class leader training must attend the entire training. In virtual class leader training, webcams must remain on. Master trainers must adhere firmly to these criteria.
11. Encourage Video and Audio Use: Encourage participants in six-week community classes to use video and audio during virtual sessions. Seeing faces is important. Provide hotline numbers if needed.
12. Technology Facilitators: If someone from your agency manages the technology, they should only deliver the curriculum if they are a licensed PTC class leader.
13. No Recording of Classes: Recording of classes, whether in-person or virtual, is not permitted to ensure that participants feel comfortable sharing.
14. Don't forget certificates for community participants.
15. If you leave your agency, you are not to leave your PTC materials behind. We do NOT want others leading the class without attending class leader training.

Monitoring fidelity is essential to maintain the integrity of the PTC program, achieve its intended outcomes, and provide participants with the full benefits of the curriculum.

Additionally, here are some suggestions for ongoing course improvement:

• Closed Captioning: Use closed captioning within PowerPoint or your virtual platform to accommodate participants with hearing impairments. https://go.iastate.edu/PIFOFR
• Special Dietary Considerations: If offering refreshments or a meal, be considerate of those with special dietary needs.
• Adapting the Evaluation: Feel free to adapt the six-week community class evaluation to suit your agency's specific needs.

A few last notes of things we are trying to work on in our work here at Human Sciences Extension and Outreach –

• Avoid Using "You Guys": We are aiming to stop using the term "you guys" in our language. While it may not be intentionally offensive, it can be seen as non-inclusive and gender-biased. The articles below explain the reasons behind this and offer insights into using more inclusive language.

Why You Should Stop Saying "Guys"

The Problem With Saying "You Guys"

• Use the Microphone: We recognize the importance of using a microphone when speaking, not just for amplification but for inclusivity. The articles below discuss the significance of using a microphone and the impact it has on communication.

What You're Saying When You Say "I Don't Need a Mic"

Yes, You Do Need to Use That Microphone

Public Speakers: Use the Damn Microphone

These efforts demonstrate a commitment to creating more inclusive and effective communication in your work, which is a positive step toward promoting equality and clarity in your interactions.

Best,

Malisa Rader

Interim Program Coordinator

The next Master Trainer training is scheduled!

Submit an application now to reserve your spot.

·       Friday, November 10, 2023 10:00am–12:00pm CST

See requirements for becoming a PTC Master trainer.

If interested, please fill out the Master Trainer application form.

Powerful Tools for Caregivers

ptcaregivers@iastate.edu

www.powerfultoolsforcaregivers.org