A session walkthrough
This account is based on one of the "Democracy?" sessions held in 2023. Given the diversity of contexts, objectives and topics, each session is unique in its implementation and experience.
Before each Immersive Audio Unlearning (IAU) session, the group of learners is informed about the specifics of the methodology and recommendations for the session, including getting a good night's sleep the night before.
Technical preparation of the room and sound equipment is another important aspect that takes place before a session, in collaboration with partner organisations and host venues.
On arrival at the venue, each learner finds a pre-arranged room with sound and light. Conveniently, drinks are provided to replenish energy levels. Depending on the type of room and the size of the group, there may be a circle of chairs or an auditorium with indications of the seats that can be used. A series of useful information is projected onto the background screen, welcoming you, referring to the protocol for using electronics during the session and reminding you of the meaning of words such as 'audio', 'unlearning' and 'immersive'.
The welcome music gives way to the first introductory phase of the session - usually oral - which includes introductions, contextualisation of the methodology and a refresher on the topic. The closing of the doors is announced, at which point the group of learners is considered complete. The second half of the introduction covers essential methodological aspects, such as the reasons for closing the eyes during immersion or any risks and how to deal with them. The group is encouraged to find the most comfortable way to experience immersion - sitting in their chairs, moving to mattresses in the middle of the room or using cushions to sit on the floor.
Once the group has given its consent, the immersion moment begins. The background music starts and the trainer's voice comes over the microphone, leading to a brief progressive relaxation of the muscles. The storytelling begins and lasts about thirty minutes.
Towards the end, having become familiar with the language used during the initial relaxation, the group is invited to return and open their eyes, and a quick check is made to see if the group is ready to move on to the next phase. The curtains are opened to allow natural light into the room. People return to their places for the sharing phase. A slide with the session credits is projected.
During this final phase, the group is invited to share their impressions of the experience: questions they would like to discuss with the group; questions they take away from the experience for themselves; and questions they would like to address to the facilitator. This sharing consolidates the main learning outcomes of the session. These outcomes can be recorded to be easily revisited in the future.
Each IAU session usually lasts between 90 and 120 minutes.