Designing Effective Leadership Teambuilding Programs for Youth

Tyrone Miller, Ed.D.Leadership and Organizational Development Specialist

Tennessee State University

Objectives

• To share considerations and best practices for designing effective teambuilding programs for youth

• To share results of several teambuilding experiences with youth

Best practices for implementing effective teambuilding programs for youth

• Committed, caring adults • Flexibility • Quality staff training and education• Safe space• Cultural component• Family and/or key stakeholder involvement• Enriching curricula

Considerations For Developing Effective Teambuilding Programs

• Logistics• Group Dynamics• Legal issues• Medical issues• Resources• Physical Ability• Space• Number of participants• Needs of the participants

Other Considerations

• Take time to understand culture and group norms

• Allow youth to start with a “blank slate”• Intentionally establish group norms• Maintain a positive attitude and positive

expectations• Clearly communicate expectations

Model program: Backfield in Motion DREAM Project

• 13-15 participants ranging in age from 8th to 11th grade

• 2 coaches• 2 facilitators

Model program: Backfield in Motion DREAM Project - II

• Program components:– 4 days of workshops– Topics included:

• Team Building• Self Awareness/ Actualization• Vision/Mission• Decision Making• Service/Advocacy• Healthy Male/Female Relationships• Conflict Resolution• Careers/Entrepreneurship

Backfield in Motion DREAM Project - III

• Program evaluation consisted of post-program surveys and observations

• Results:– Put-downs and teasing by participants (otherwise known as

“discounting”) was reduced by at least 40% based on observations

– 76% of participants indicated that they learned more about leadership skills in general

– At least 70% of participants indicated that they learned more about their personality, entrepreneurship and teamwork skills

Model program: Backfield in Motion DREAM Project

Model Program: Developing Future Scientists Day Camp Project

Model Program: Youth Leadership Program - Cheatham County

The Wisdom of the Group

Contact Information:

Tyrone Miller, Ed.D.Extension Leadership & Organization Development Specialist/ Assistant ProfessorTennessee State University615.963.1843tmiller11@tnstate.edu