Instruction
Assignment Instructions
Agency Interview/Format
Interview a person at a site that provides services to and/or for children (age group infancy through age 11). Be
sure to call ahead and set up an appointment at the site. Tell her/him that the interview will take approximately
1 hours. If possible, take a tour of the facility. Format your paper as follows (typed, double-spaced, a minimum
of 4 full pages, standard font, one-inch margins):
Name and location of agency.
Name of person you interviewed:
her/his title or position at site
how long s/he has been working there
education (degrees, relevant experience)
A brief history of the agency:
name and location of agency
how long it has existed
brief description of services provided for children
how they are funded
how people access their agency (are children referred, specific criteria, open to all, etc.)
approximate number of clientele and staff
Why did this person choose to work at this agency?
What are some of the strengths of the agency? Is there anything s/he would like to see added to the present services?
(Let the interviewee know that this is in no way a criticism of current services but a wish list of what s/he would like
to see changed, added, etc.)
What are some of the most significant changes s/he has seen concerning children and families over the last 3-5 years?
Have this persons feelings about what s/he was going to be able to provide for children changed from when s/he first
started in the field? Explain/expand on this answer if possible.
What is the most important thing people need to know or remember about children?
For people interested in seeking employment in this area:
What does s/he think those interested should know about this specific field?
What educational courses, degrees, internships and/or volunteer experiences are beneficial?
Anything else s/he would like to add that might help enhance your understanding of child development/psychology.
Any other questions you (the interviewer) would like to ask.
For the interviewer: Your paper should include a summary of the above questions and answers.
The following portion of the paper must be a minimum of one full page: Write your thoughts, reflections, and
insights concerning the interview, the agency/facility, and the information you gathered. What did you learn?
What surprised you? Were there any preconceived assumptions or bias you had that changed after doing this
interview? What is your impression of the physical space/site? Based on the readings and your understanding of
the needs of children, what do you think could be added that would enhance the services now being offered? Are
there other related areas that you believe need to be addressed?