OSS Connect Frequently Asked Questions
What is One Small Step Connect?
In fall 2023, StoryCorps will introduce a new tool called OSS Connect which is an alternative to the current facilitated conversation experience and will allow more people to participate in One Small Step more quickly.
One Small Step Connect allows you to engage in a virtual OSS conversation, via a video call platform, without a facilitator. Our guided process will help you feel supported every step of the way. And rest assured, only the audio portion of your OSS conversation is recorded and archived.
How can I sign up for an OSS Connect conversation and how does it work?
Click here and select the button that represents your geographic location. That will take you to the correct matching application form for your area. If you’re interested in being considered for participation via OSS Connect, please check the box in the introduction to the form. If you’ve opted in for OSS Connect, the platform will use the data you provided in an automated process that will match you with a small handful of potential conversation partners. If you have already completed a questionnaire, you will receive an email from us giving you the choice to opt-in to OSS Connect. If you have questions, please email [email protected].
Important: Potential matches will be able to see some or all of the following data you provided when you completed the matching application: first name and last initial; city, state; gender; age range; political party; social issues score; interests, short bio, descriptors, and life events.
Once you receive your potential match(es), you’ll participate in an automated process to connect you with a partner, schedule your conversation, prepare for and conduct your interview.
What is the difference between a facilitated conversation and an unfacilitated One Small Step Connect conversation?
Currently, all OSS conversations are facilitated, which means a StoryCorps staffer who is trained to support these kinds of conversations guides you through the experience. If you choose to participate via the OSS Connect platform, rather than having a live facilitator on hand for your conversation, we provide you and your conversation partner with a robust toolkit of resources that will help you have a rewarding conversation experience.
If I’ve already participated in an OSS conversation, can I participate in an OSS Connect conversation?
Opting in to the OSS experience does not remove you from consideration for a facilitated interview—we’d love to have you experience a conversation both ways. You can also do as many OSS conversations as you like. To opt in to an OSS Connect conversation, click here and select the button that represents your geographic location. That will take you to the correct matching application form for your area. If you’re interested in being considered for participation via OSS Connect, please check the box in the introduction to the form. If you have already completed a questionnaire, you will receive an email from us giving you the choice to opt-in to OSS Connect. If you have questions, please email [email protected].