In addition to the horizon scanning process, seven interviews with experts were conducted in November and December 2023. The aim of the interviews was to expand on the initial insights from the horizon scanning process and go deeper into understanding the possible scenarios for youth work in 2050. The interviews were conducted with participants from diverse backgrounds, including youth work practitioners, academics, researchers, consultants, experts in digital technology and future studies, as well as professionals from the fields of sociology, anthropology and education.
The interview participants were asked a series of thought-provoking questions aimed at exploring the potential future of youth work in the year 2050. The questions delved into various aspects that could shape and influence the field, including societal trends, environmental factors, the youth workplace itself, technological advancements, the purpose and role of youth work and its relationship with other fields and stakeholders. Additionally, the participants were asked to reflect on what youth work might need to leave behind, embrace or adopt in terms of practices and mindsets to survive and thrive in the coming decades. The questions encouraged a forward-looking perspective, encouraging participants to consider emerging practices that could contribute to defining and designing the futures of youth work and what new knowledge or understanding might be gained by 2050. These interviews have been transcribed and analysed to inform the development of the trends and scenarios for youth work and are included in the writing of sections of the research, sometimes as quotes to punctuate it.