If informal conversations about the potential of asset building in a new country or culture yield continuing interest, there are numerous specific strategies for moving forward more formally. The approach to take depends on priorities of the asset champions, local realities, available resources, and perceived alignment between the existing Developmental Assets framework and the local culture, context, and language. Search Institute remains open to a wide range of approaches, including the following (which may, of course, be combined):
Adapt the Developmental Assets framework and approach
- Implement an open-ended dialogue process with youth and adults about the factors they perceive to be important to growing up successfully, then exploring how this “indigenous wisdom” maps to the current framework of Developmental Assets.
- Engage local researchers to examine existing research that confirms, challenges, or reframes the Developmental Assets framework and the asset-building approach.
- Convene local experts in child and youth development to dialogue about the applicability of the Developmental Assets framework to their local context and setting.
- Depending on the particular situation and interests, invite local leaders to assess existing tools and resources to determine what may be relevant and helpful in their context (including recommendations for adaptations or alternatives).
Assess and map readiness, resources, and opportunities for asset building
- Conduct interviews (or other information-gathering process) with key informants to assess readiness, existing infrastructure, and effective strategies for initiating asset building within the particular culture and context. This input can also assist in identifying barriers (such as competing priorities) that may impede progress or suggest alternate strategies.
- Convene dialogues, summits, or conferences to gather similar information and begin to cultivate initial receptivity and awareness to asset-building approaches.
Launch a pilot research or mobilization project
- In some cases, a small research study using existing tools or instruments can yield important information, insight, and motivation for future work. This might include, for example, a survey of a convenience sample of young people to ascertain whether the relationships between Developmental Assets and thriving or risk behaviors remain robust within that setting. Search Institute will seek to be as flexible as possible in conducting this kind of experiment while also maintaining the quality of the research data being gathered.
- A community or organization may be interested in experimenting with Developmental Assets in their activities and programming to determine whether the general approach will resonate with children, youth, and families. These pilots raise additional issues and opportunities that can set the stage for future work on a broader scale.
Search Institute can play a consultative role, offer technical assistance, or work as an active learning and planning partner in these initial activities, depending on the strategic value of involvement (for both parties), logistical issues (such as travel, language barriers, timelines), and available financial and human resources. Search Institute will also work to link asset builders with similar interests or concerns for mutual learning and networking.
