Learning about learning from the public: Large and small group public engagement methods

In 2009 as part of the multi-year Minnesota Pandemic Ethics Project, we conducted extensive public engagements about ethically rationing the state's health-related resources during a severe influenza pandemic. Lessons learned about method extend beyond the topic of pandemic preparedness. The engagements encompassed two large community forums and nine small group discussions, each six hours in length. The forums included introductory factual presentations with opportunities for questions, followed by a series of structured, facilitated small and large group discussions. Audience response technology (ART) was employed to poll the large group during the discussions. The forums concluded with an individual exercise in which participants were asked to arrange a set of cards to illustrate their priorities. These methods were adapted for the small group engagements, eliminating ART and keeping participants together for all the discussions, rather than breaking them into yet smaller conversations periodically. We will discuss strengths and limitations of both large and small group methodology, in terms of their relative complexity and need for supporting resources, as well as tradeoffs in the breadth and depth of substantive input gleaned from each. Relevant factors include budget and staffing limitations, facilitation experience, strength of local partnerships and desire for geographic diversity. We'll discuss whether, when and how to employ ART. We'll share an example of an individual exercise that was used both to gather data and to prompt group discussion. This is a hands-on learning opportunity to share methods, experiences, and ideas that will inform your next public engagement opportunity.