TIPS classes use many formats to promote learning, including discussion, role-play, video and written materials, taught by certified TIPS trainers.  The material is presented in an interactive manner.  This unique method of combining information with skills training and practice/rehearsal is an effective and established method of adult education.

TIPS currently offers nine different versions of the program to address the unique environments where alcohol is served, sold, and consumed.  The TIPS commercial programs are designed to teach participants to prevent intoxication, drunk driving and underage drinking among their customers and guests. The programs are based on the same core information, tailored to the program-specific audience.

Following is an outline of the program structure and content.

INFORMATION

How Alcohol Affects Your Guests
Explains how alcohol works, signs of intoxication, and factors that affect the intoxication rate.

Effective Server Responses
Discusses the legal responsibilities of sellers and servers of alcohol and the types of illegal sales. Introduces strategies for responding to alcohol-related situations.

 

SKILLS TRAINING

Evaluating Cues
Participants apply TIPS concepts to determine intoxication levels for customers and guests portrayed on video.

Evaluating Responses
Participants apply TIPS concepts and stategies to determine the effectiveness with which a server responds to an alcohol-related situation as portrayed on video.

 

PRACTICE / REHEARSAL

Participants demonstrate their ability to use the information and skills learned in the program by creating realistic alcohol-related situations for their participants to handle. They receive immediate feedback on their effectiveness from the trainer and the other participants.

 

CERTIFICATION EXAM

As the final step in obtaining TIPS certification, each participant completes a required certification exam to show comprehension of the information and grasp of the skills presented during the program.  All grading is done by HCI.