. Feel free to take part in refreshments or use the restroom at any time. We teach the youngest children to take turns, but even adults need to be reminded. Your performance is as good as your preparation. If the situation is particularly difficult, a directive leader might be needed to keep control of the discussion and make. Health professionals and health educators. Talking about styles of communication is an excellent ice-breaker. Think of the meetings you have participated in over the past year. The complete guide to facilitation. Group members can receive and respond to respectful but honest and constructive feedback. What surprises or challenges me? 2. There are always a mix of extrovert and introverted people in a meeting. Inquire into the reasoning of others. Wherever you (or your branch) are in the journey to build cultural competence, we encourage you to carefully read through this toolkit, access the resources and have group discussions to thoughtfully and respectfully explore the content. Be clear up front about expectations and intentions amongst participants and the facilitator. They identify the "rules of engagement" that support a permissive safe environment. 1994-2023The University of Kansas. Community activists. You have some choices about how you do that, however. Such ground rules are especially important when discussing controversial or otherwise challenging topics. 5. Some common examples of ground rules include: Come to class on time, and when possible notify group members in advance of absences. Some facilitators keep discussions on track by listing the questions or issues they want to cover on the board or summarizing the discussion on the board as it proceeds. Ground rules The dedication of its employees and other stakeholders to creating a supportive and secure environment for the larger community is something Northeastern University appreciates. We willmodify these as a group to meet DEI needs. Openness - Be at ease. The notes might also include a summary of conclusions that were reached, as well as any assignments or follow-up activities that were agreed on. A local coalition forms a task force to address the rising HIV rate among teens in the community. % Encouraging participation can be accomplished by: adapted from: Center for Integration of Research, Teaching and Learning Handbook, accessed July 2008. Feedback could be positive, negative, or merely clarifying or correcting factual questions or errors, but is in all cases delivered respectfully. Effective facilitation of a discussion involves the recognition and employment of different perspectives and different skills to create an inclusive environment. Be willing to share information. Most often because they are afraid of the consequences or think the context isn't the right one to address the issue. Listen actively: Listen to understand, not to respond. This comprehensive resource includes new features such as: a chapter on intersectionality and classism, discussion of contemporary activisms (Black Lives Matter, Occupy, and Idle No More), material on White Settler societies and colonialism, pedagogical supports related to "common social patterns" and "vocabulary to practice using," and extensive updates throughout. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. In these circumstances, the leaders ability to identify points of agreement, or to ask the question that will get discussion moving again is crucial to the groups effectiveness. About ground rules Ground rules are a short list of expectations to guide how a group works together. This is a discussion, not a debate. Make sure everyone gets any necessary information, readings, or other material beforehand. 12 Ground Rules for Online Discussions Participate: This is a shared learning environment. (Characteristics that may give you a unique perspective). Your ground rules the issue of respecting everyone should address this issue, and it probably wont come upbut there are no guarantees. Well begin by looking at what you might consider if you have time to prepare. Ground Rules for Support Groups. The ideal here is that other members of the group do the challenging, and it may be worth waiting long enough before you jump in to see if thats going to happen. Explain the topic. The following ground rules and operating norms have been established, and team members have agreed to hold each other accountable for adherence to these rules and norms: Decision-maker attendance is expected. A good group discussion leader has to pay attention to the process and content of the discussion as well as to the people who make up the group. The focus and goals of our book readings and discussions areknowledge acquisition and learning from the text. That reaction not only leaves the conflict unresolved and therefore growing, so that it will be much stronger when it surfaces later but fails to examine the issues that it raises. Everybody participates. To that end, there are some ground rules for participating in the group that we ask that everyone follow. We each have a style we prefer, and sometimes, under certain circumstances, some styles are better suited to manage conflict given the situation. Professionals with group-leading skills counselors, social workers, therapists, etc. It is just a list to get you started as well ones that Campus Pride finds most important to include in ALL workshops, meetings, discussions, and trainings. Discourage alternate views or counter-arguments. So how do you do that? These folks may be respected for their leadership president of the Rotary Club, spokesperson for an environmental movement for their positions in the community bank president, clergyman or simply for their personal qualities integrity, fairness, ability to communicate with all sectors of the community. Make "undiscussable" ideas discussible. Each session will be a facilitated discussion of selected chapters, led by a member of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. Members of an environmental group attend a workshop on the effects of global warming. Sometimes we are tempted to begin formulating what we want to say in response, instead of giving 100 percent of our focus to the speaker. IF YOU ARE TRIGGERED and need to talk after this discussion, YWCA is here to help. That would include for example listening first, asking questions, looking for a common ground and not making it personal. Be present, and don't attend to non-meeting business. Setting ground rules for productive discussions, Exploring the impact of charismatic leaders in communities, Pros and cons of using internal and external facilitators. Developing Facilitation Skills, Section 3. Some Thoughts on Establishing Ground Rules "All the literature on classroom management considers setting groups rules essential (Baldwin, 1997-1998; Ballantine & Risacher, 1993; Boice, 1996; Brooks, 1987; Feldmann, 2001; Gonzalez & Lopez, 2001 . The goal is not to agree it is to gain a deeper understanding. 2. Mayer, B. The ultimate comfort, and one that breaks down barriers among people, is that of eating and drinking. Each session will be a facilitated discussion of selected chapters, led by a member of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. Ground rules are a short list of expectations to guide how a group works together. If you have the luxury of choosing your space, you might look for someplace thats comfortable and informal. If it was the beginning, however, or part of an ongoing discussion, you may have a lot to do before the next session, including contacting people to make sure theyve done what they promised, and preparing the newsprint notes to be posted at the next session so everyone can remember the discussion. When conflict arises, what matters when is how we deal with it. If you think you can wing it with aggression, you are mistaken. Listen attentively to others without interruption and be slow to judge. As groups seek to solve problems together, productive discussions are fundamental. Group Facilitation and Problem-Solving, Section 2. (Do not merely formulate what you are going to say while others are talking.) The facilitator can list both sides of the argument on the board. If the group starts to veer in the direction of negativity and/or pointless venting, ask them how they would like to address this. Action plan for enhancing team capabilities team charter with strengths and ground rules. The "A & A Rule" says that instead of judging ideas, people should focus on adding to ideas or providing alternatives. Welcome Packet and Week 1 Discussion Guide Week 2 - Belonging; Week 3 - The Roots of Polarization; Week 4 - Humanity in Disagreement; Week 5 - Connection Across Divides; Ground Rules. Share feelings and experiences, but not advice. It is important to ensure that the response is rational and balanced and deals with the conflict in an efficient way so we can restore our focus on the task at hand. Poster. Start on time . When used in consensus building, the list of ground rules is sometimes referred to as a protocol. Creating a Collaborative Learning Environment Guidebook, Center for Integration of Research, Teaching, and Learning (University of Wisconsin-Madison). "Recognize the difference between opinions and informed knowledge. 1. If youre asked your opinion directly, you should answer honestly. The literal definition of a group discussion is obvious: a critical conversation about a particular topic, or perhaps a range of topics, conducted in a group of a size that allows participation by all members. A second strategy is to ask opinion questions occasionally (e.g., How do you feel about this?). Based on many years of experience with groups, there are certain behaviors that frequently create . "Discuss undiscussable issues" gives participants permission to address these challenges, because they are for the benefit of the whole group. Group Work in the Classroom | Resource Pack. Avoid interrupting or having side conversations. Having the words written out may make it easier for a shy or fearful person to speak up. Start each activity or discussion by setting community agreements using the steps below. The following ground principles must be followed and put into practice by all staff members working on-site and off-site as a team unless explicit exceptions apply. 9. If there is an experimentally verified answer, the facilitator can use the opportunity to review the method by which the answer could be determined. Because some activities explore potentially sensitive topics, its a good idea to establish some norms or community agreements to provide ground rules for your conversation and to ensure that space feels safe for conversation and exploration. That may lead to a goal ultimatelybut it may not. Participants should read and review our Ground Rules prior to the sessions. Allow only the dominant or more verbal participants to take over the conversation. Involve students in the creation of guidelines. 3. Ground rules help the facilitator establish what behaviors are expected of the focus group participants. Allow others to share. Regardless of the forum, conversations about diversity and inclusion can be difficult. Listen actively respect others when they are talking. A representative . Give all participants a voice- at the start highlight the value of a diversity of perspectives as an essential part of the process. In order to work effectively, the team should be able to understand, agree upon and follow the ground rules. As instructors, offer points for participating in conversations. How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Discussing Race. Best practices for introducing ground rules to a group is to: Review the rules verbally. Avoid mentally imposing your own biases, thoughts, or opinions onto what someone else is sharing. 2. This category could include anyone from professional community organizers to average citizens who care about an issue or have an idea they want to pursue. In those moments, it's better for participants to share knowledge with each other, instead of being critical and blaming others for their lack of knowledge. But they are necessary to build equality within a team and organization. There is no one size fits all list of ground rules. xx Speak from your own experience instead of generalizing ("I" instead of "they," "we," and "you"). The more tangible ideas are, the easier it is to discuss them. If you don't pay attention it can happen that one person starts to completely dominate the discussion. Simply by coming to the conclusion, that it's best to agree to disagree for now, because neither of the sides is going to change their mind. If the question is less clear-cut, you might want to throw it back to the group, and use it as a spur to discussion. There are many possible purposes for a group discussion, such as: Possible leadership styles of a group discussion also vary. Research & Everyone is asked to consider different perspectives, for the purpose of sensitivity, learning, and growth. Find out the kind of topics that are given at the institution or company you are applying for. Suggestions for Leading Small-Group Discussions, prepared by Lee Haugen, Center for Teaching Excellence, Iowa State University, 1998. Half the preparation is about knowledge. For Zoom Meetings, consider these ground rules to ensure a great group discussion: Find a quiet space to participate in the meeting. 6.1. The chances are that, like most of us, you fall somewhere in between the extremes of the leader who sets the agenda and dominates the group completely, and the leader who essentially leads not at all. Accept each other without making judgments. If you paraphrase what someone else said, verify with them afterwards that you This is not meant to make you the expert, but rather to allow you to ask good questions that will help the group generate ideas. A good facilitator helps the group set rules for itself, makes sure that everyone participates and that no one dominates, encourages the development and expression of all ideas, including odd ones, and safeguards an open process, where there are no foregone conclusions and everyones ideas are respected. In this last section of a chapter on group facilitation, well examine what it takes to lead a discussion group well, and how you can go about doing it. A combination of initiating and probing questions can be an effective approach to bring out participants ideas further. Do group members want to be called on or would they like to speak freely? Respected community members. This allows the group to accomplish its purpose if it has one, or to establish a basis either for ongoing discussion or for further contact and collaboration among its members. However, with practice and support, the conversations will become easier and bring about positive change for your team. Members new to these issues are encouraged to spend time . The materials are broken down into "modules" and facilitation trainers can use some or all of them to suit their needs. What is said in the group, stays in the group. As explained in the opening paragraphs of this section, group discussions are common in a democratic society. Do not be afraid to respectfully challenge one another by asking questions, but refrain from personal attacks focus on ideas. Each session will be a facilitated discussion of selected chapters, led by a member of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. E.L.M.O stands for "Enough, let's move on" and can be established as a meeting rule to cut unnecessary discussions. All of these might be examples of group discussions, although they have different purposes, take place in different locations, and probably run in different ways. This may encourage participation by reducing participants fear of answering incorrectly. An effective group discussion can lay the groundwork for action and real community change. Well, theres no set formula, but there are some best practices for managing conflict. Provide sufficient time and space for participants to gather their thoughts and contribute to discussions. Ground rules help a group start and maintain a productive discussion. "Be the crew, not the passenger" highlights the value of actively contributing to the meeting (crew), instead of falling back into the role of an observer (passenger). One of the most important steps to an effective conversation about diversity and inclusion is to set ground rules for the participants. Common ground rules include: Ground rules may also include participation-management techniques. You also may be in a position to lead one, and thats what this section is about. 11 ground rules for effective meetings 1. Then she has to guide the discussion, being careful to promote an open process; involve everyone and let no one dominate; attend to the personal issues and needs of individual group members when they affect the group; summarize or clarify when appropriate; ask questions to keep the discussion moving, and put aside her own agenda, ego, and biases. Using "I" statements, helps participations to speak for themselves and creates more respect for everyone's unique point of view. Establish meeting ground rules for positive personal interaction which can assist with consensus decision making. Support Group Ground Rules . The first ground rule is to review each other's style of communication. For further guidance on developing . Reframing - The focus can be on clarifying the assumptions behind the persons argument and then inviting her or him to see alternative possibilities. Be present. Participants or students who attack often want attention, so simply giving them some recognition while firmly moving on often takes care of the problem. Learn how to effectively conduct a critical conversation about a particular topic, or topics, that allows participation by all members of your organization. St. Paul, MN: University of Minnesota Extension. Lets look at these, as well as some dos and donts for discussion group leaders. 2, pp.419-427. Active listening - Facilitators can paraphrase the message they heard and check out the accuracy of their assumptions before responding. Then ask if anyone has something to add to the list. It is a good idea to post the agreed-upon ground rules in a place they can be easily referenced throughout the conversation. While many public organizations use parliamentary procedure as a form of ground rules, such formal rules may not be sufficient or appropriate for guiding public discussion. 4 0 obj University of Minnesota Extension discovers science-based solutions, delivers practical education, and engages Minnesotans to build a better future. It is important that no one in your small group community dominate conversation and also that every . Report Glitches: Discussion forums are electronic. However, any class can benefit from ground rules that set expectations for respectful dialogue. The first thing you need to think about is leadership style, which we mentioned briefly earlier in the section. Be committed to identifying beneficial ways to talk to others about inclusion issues and realize the conversations will not be perfect every time. Meeting rules covering time management listening and record outcomes. If those are brought out in the open and discussed reasonably, the two sides often find that they have as much agreement as disagreement, and can resolve their differences by putting their ideas together. The Tool Box needs your help The more assertive and less cooperative you are, the more likely you are to exhibit traits of the competing style for managing conflict, and the more cooperative and less assertive you are, the more accommodating you are in your style of conflict management. Develop an awareness for barriers for learning (cultural; social; experiential, etc). Consider implementing these 11 ground rules with all meeting attendees in advance to get everyone on board. If a rule you feel is important is not mentioned by the group, feel free to bring it up for consideration. for Racial Justice in Higher Education Most discussions are aided by the use of newsprint and markers to record ideas, for example. Ground Rules for Online Discussions 1) Participate: Students must contribute to conversations. Ground rules clarify expectations of behavior during the meeting. The presence of conflict can help us problem solve, innovate new ways of doing things, generate new ideas and perhaps most importantly, it can help us expand our understanding of new concepts and experiences. Project on Civic Reflection provides information about leading study circles on civic reflection. This can be done via a handout, posted on a wall, or projected on a . Your transparency will encourage others. Keep discussions focused. In public meetings, forums, hearings and other group settings, productive discussion is critical. We recommend each state and branch (if appropriate) fill this role with someone whos passionate about diversity and inclusion and demonstrates a radical yet respectful curiosity to embrace change. 2 "Disagree without being disagreeable" Critique the opinion, not the person. Forsyth, D .Group Dynamics. (2007) Allowing Not-Knowing in a Dialogic Discussion. The ground rules of a group discussion are the guidelines that help to keep the discussion on track, and prevent it from deteriorating into namecalling or simply argument. Use headphones or a headset. 6. Marcus., The Handbook of Conflict Resolution: Theory and Practice (3. Try to keep the group on task without rushing them. -Approved Feb. 9, 2007. Before the meeting, prepare a flip chart sheet with Community Agreements written at the top, followed by the sample community agreements: Remember, after you read through this list, ask if anyone has comments or questions about the community agreements overall. ( do not be afraid to respectfully challenge one another by asking questions, for! Only the dominant or more verbal participants to take part in refreshments or use the restroom any... Necessary to build a better future else is sharing equality within a team and organization of expectations to how! 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A local coalition forms a task force to address the issue Recognize the difference between opinions and informed knowledge and. ; t attend to non-meeting business well as some dos and donts for group. Some or all of them to suit their needs facilitator establish what behaviors are expected of the focus can on. Of choosing your space, you might consider if you have participated in the! Gets any necessary information, readings, or projected on a take over the past year hearings! Down into `` modules '' and facilitation trainers can use some or of. The more tangible ideas are, the team should be able to understand, not the..