Experiential learning

Purposes of this assignment:

• Obtain first-hand information about harm reduction practices
• Learn about local services (WAC 246-811-030.3.i)
• Connect with professionals in our field
• Understand substance abuse and addiction treatment methods (WAC 246-811-030.3.c)

Tasks:

1. Visit a local harm reduction program. This could be a methadone program, a syringe exchange program (here’s a
2. ), a safe/supervised use site, “wet” housing such as 1811 Eastlake, safer sex services, outreach to people involved in prostitution… Some of these services are open to drop-in visitors. Others would have to approve your visit in advance. I strongly suggest checking with them in advance, many days before you hope to visit.
3. Find out what they do. Learn about their clientele, services, and outcomes by meeting with a staff member and/or client, in conjunction with their published materials and your own observations.
4. Share your findings. Tell me where you went and what you learned. Include your assessment of its advantages and disadvantages. Explain the impact on you of directly experiencing/meeting the personnel, the clients, and/or the environment. You could do so through an essay, a blog, or a video.

Grading criteria: Please see

. The instructor is not looking for you to take a particular stance. You get to make your judgment. You will be graded, however, on your ability to support your ideas with good reasoning or evidence.

Note: An agency may have a variety of programs or provide various services. Focus on their harm reduction programming.

Suggestions:

Before your visit:

1. Decide what type of service you’re interested in seeing. Your instructor suggests choosing something you’re unfamiliar with, something new to you.
2. Find out who provides that service in our area. (Google it.)
3. Contact them to see if you can visit. Contact them at least 5 days in advance. Tell them you are a student studying Harm Reduction. Ask if you can visit. See if they have any particular requests or instructions for you. Follow them.
4. Read a little about them before you go.

During your visit:

1. Take a friend or the instructor, if you’re nervous.
2. Respect those involved. Do not take photos or make recordings without the clear consent of the program and those portrayed. Respect their privacy.
3. Look, listen, ask, and feel.

After your visit:

1. Gather your thoughts. Put down your information, ideas, feelings, and remaining questions.
2. Write a clear thesis statement.
3. Write a justification. Explain your reasons.
4. Choose a format to provide your results.