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One way to deal with sensitive issues is to provide an attitude survey
before a tough topic is discussed. This allows participants to put their
thoughts and reactions on paper, and provides them with some thinking
and adjusting time before the topic is discussed aloud among the group, or
before other activities get underway.
Here are some tips for using an attitude survey in your training:
It does not have to be called an attitude survey. Title it as something that makes sense and fits
with your training plan. The term “attitude survey” is here for you to see, but might seem
intimidating for participants depending on the subject.
Participants may not want to reveal their answers to one another. Watch closely to ensure that
people are not intruding on one another by forcing someone to reveal their thoughts.
The attitude survey can be a good pre- and post-training activity. Participants can use the tool to
monitor their own thinking or shift in perception throughout the training process.
It may seem straightforward to offer an attitude survey, but you need to watch your language. Make
sure that statements are not open to interpretation or bias, by using clear and simple language.
It also helps in our program design stage to have a colleague review the questions or statements
with you so that you can prepare an effective survey.