Increase participation and the sharing of ideas and perspectives; Promote openness to points of view and increase learning; Manage problems before and as they occur; and. (2001). The Best Conflict Resolution Books in 2023. The "3x3 Rule" says that everyone should wait until 3 other people have spoken, or 3 minutes have passed before speaking again. Boice, R. (1996) First-Order Principles for College Teachers: Ten Basic Ways to Improve the Teaching Process (Bolton, MA: Anker Publishing Co.). Establish ground rules: Share personal experiences rather than make general statements about groups of people (stereotyping). For further guidance on developing . Keep discussions focused. Discussion Group Role Cards. (2006). Work begins long before you sit for the group discussion. The Dynamics of Conflict Resolution: A Practitioners Guide. This is a discussion, not a debate. Here are some common problems with suggestions for how to deal with them. Gelula, M.H. s UY8+/W~=jn]y+-S>z=)^w}7UO0E70N!T Vd5[Ic|0R>>SZ *}:?4I5u4O3rWoP^9Ax9ktC'g)FybD^C[40#B1{RXOQ7zKt;c[4y%]:RUYQSBC2F@)]R.6)5fh_LmKLQ #(A-)(Lhpi Y8z012-:'5J-X'%F'B^5V"vAj 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. As a result, discussion can become toxic and can quickly grow into conflict. 1. Guide for Setting Ground Rules. End on time. Team Work PowerPoint. "Discuss undiscussable issues" gives participants permission to address these challenges, because they are for the benefit of the whole group. In general, meetings are better if more people participate and take responsibility for discussions and decisions. Show up on time and come prepared. The first thing you need to think about is leadership style, which we mentioned briefly earlier in the section. "Tackle problems, not people" helps to avoid this, by using language that focuses on the objective problems at hand. 2 x=@! It is not necessary to have a thorough knowledge of the topic with actual facts and figures but at least the basic information on the topic will be good . 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. Facilitators might also ask one or more members of the group to act as observers for a few sessions, reporting back their observations to the group. Nothing said in the group should be discussed outside the group without the permission of those involved. 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. 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. We willmodify these as a group to meet DEI needs. No lurking in the cyberspace background. Then well examine what it takes to make an effective discussion leader or facilitator, regardless of external circumstances. It may not have a specific goal many group discussions are just that: a group kicking around ideas on a particular topic. Speak from your own experience instead of generalizing ("I" instead of "they," "we," and "you"). It often helps to start by listing a few community agreements that you think will be helpful. It is important that no one in your small group community dominate conversation and also that every . Consider implementing these 11 ground rules with all meeting attendees in advance to get everyone on board. 2 "Disagree without being disagreeable" This isn't Diversity 101. Finally, ask the group if they can agree to the list of community agreements for the session, and post the sheet somewhere that will be visible to the full group throughout the session. Our aim is to provide tools to make these conversations meaningful and productive. Regents of the University of Minnesota. %PDF-1.3 Asking follow-up questions, and paraphrasing the comments for everyone to ponder. The group's agreement allows the leader or a group member to directly address an issue when a ground rule is not followed. Share feelings and experiences, but not advice. Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 United States License. Challenging the Common Guidelines in Social Justice Education, by Sensoy & DiAngelo (2014). Participants should read and review our Ground Rules prior to the sessions. Leading an effective group discussion takes preparation (if you have the opportunity for it), an understanding of and commitment to an open process, and a willingness to let go of your ego and biases. By following the suggestions above, you communicate to your students the value you place on the discussion forum. Ask dominant participants to allow others to speak. Provide opportunities for participants to pair-share. Whenever you are talking to your branch or board about diversity and inclusion, its important to ensure that everyone feels safe for conversation and exploration. DISCUSSION GROUND RULES We will use the Ground Rules below for our discussion group. 18 Ground Rules for Group Discussions 1 "Strong opinions, loosely held" The idea "strong opinions, loosely held" is that anyone is allowed to express their strong opinions, but at the same be open to change their mind if they new data suggests that they might be wrong. xx What surprises or challenges me? A politician convenes a town hall meeting of constituents to brainstorm ideas for the economic development of the region. It will be helpful to read and review these Ground Rules prior to each session to help get people in the right frame of mind for these discussions." (1) We will modify these as a group to meet DEI needs. Facilitation resources, volume 4: Managing group interaction. Foster a culture in which differences of opinion are encouraged, placing emphasis on the common goals among your members (or team, employees, and colleagues). Respect: We do not advise, analyze or "fix" others. Members new to these issues are encouraged to spend time . This is the new edition of the award-winning guide to social justice education. 12 Ground Rules for Online Discussions Participate: This is a shared learning environment. Mitchell, B. and Cornelia Gamlem. Lets look at these, as well as some dos and donts for discussion group leaders. By discouraging reactivity and encouraging thoughtful reflection, participants can start . "Let go of personal anecdotal evidence and look at broader societal patterns. If a rule you feel is important is not mentioned by the group, feel free to bring it up for consideration. 16 Ground Rules for Group Work 1 "Tackle problems, not people" When people feel that they personal viewpoint is under attack, they often feel hurt, lash out and attack back. Scheffert, D., Anderson, M., Anderson, S., et al. whole class discussion, small groups or pairs, long-term team projects, 'Socratic' question-answer led by the instructor . ", 4. That may lead to a goal ultimatelybut it may not. When conflict arises, what matters when is how we deal with it. well explained so that students are very . If youre asked a direct question, you might want to answer it if its a question of fact and you know the answer, and if its relevant to the discussion. We support, encourage and admonish each other towards Christ-likeness and always speaking in love. Wayne, NJ: Career Press, 2017. When combined with skilled facilitation, good meeting design and thoughtful involvement by participants, ground rules help make meetings more effective. % Mute yourself whenever you're not speaking on the current topic. Amherst, MA: HRD Press. Allow participants to introduce themselves you can even set up an ice breaker to have pairs of students introduce each other. Now, just to be clear: We are not saying that conflict is good per se. Project on Civic Reflection provides information about leading study circles on civic reflection. Ko=jmc X2AH#AP15n$WTtVkV^/ UG:Ewn=5:_je=u{JBb(MkT7}{JZ}iwBM~?Io) +2wQR0!4B+*+2HT(KCZZ[7 OMUnuSN?eR8GV^Rg5)r,c}^`}I E{?Nt ;zroW,DCx0liO'/&wML0XPrcJts[5;]2^lL`cbcbEKeiVRDX]q. Ground rules clarify expectations of behavior during the meeting. Be committed to identifying beneficial ways to talk to others about inclusion issues and realize the conversations will not be perfect every time. If you have the luxury of choosing your space, you might look for someplace thats comfortable and informal. Part of your job here is to protect minority rights, i.e., unpopular or unusual ideas. Ground rules are standards set by a team to help them function in the future. St. Paul, MN: University of Minnesota Extension. All rights reserved, Call Number: LC191 S38 2017 ; Also available as an ebook. For the maximum benefit to all, everyone must contribute. 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. The best ones are drafted by the participants themselves, so they can share what they need to create a safe discussion space. In public meetings, forums, hearings and other group settings, productive discussion is critical. 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. Support Group Ground Rules . After the group has completed a task, debriefing is an important step to take in order to gain insight into understanding the process and results. 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. Ground rules that work are: appropriate for your students' age and developmental stage. Listen actively: Listen to understand, not to respond. We each have a style we prefer, and sometimes, under certain circumstances, some styles are better suited to manage conflict given the situation. Strickland, Tessa, Kate DePalma, and David Dean. One is to state your opinion, but make very clear that its an opinion, not a fact, and that other people believe differently. Sometimes called 'ground rules,' community agreements, or participation norms (and there are several fuller examples below), such guidelines can be provided by an instructor or generated collaboratively with students. Your ground rules the issue of respecting everyone should address this issue, and it probably wont come upbut there are no guarantees. Tips on university teaching, but much of the information is useful in other circumstances as well. Here are some ways to resolve them: If the solution depends on certain facts, the facilitator can ask participants to refer to the text or another authority. (1). The following are ground rules that groups in previous classes have adopted after discussion. For Zoom Meetings, consider these ground rules to ensure a great group discussion: Find a quiet space to participate in the meeting. This is especially true when the group is stuck, either because two opposing ideas or factions are at an impasse, or because no one is able or willing to say anything. How to have a Diversity and Inclusion Conversation. They break. Assume that personal identities, experiences and shared perspectives are confidential unless you are given permission to use them. But if participants mutually explore the interest behind the positions, it becomes much easier to find a common ground. Be solution-focused. Be on time and prepared for meetings. In less formal circumstances, youll have to make the best of existing conditions. Ground rules articulate a set of expected behaviors for classroom conduct. Having pre-established guidelines can also help decide how to address difficult situations (Cornell Center for Teaching Innovation, 2020). Steinert, Y. Services. 5. Everyone is asked to consider different perspectives, for the purpose of sensitivity, learning, and growth. Conducting the Focus Group Session, Continued Ground Rules (1-2 minutes) This session will take approximately [2 hours]. Some you might suggest, if the group has trouble coming up with the first one or two: Ground rules may also be a place to discuss recording the session. 6. Its not an easy task, but it can be extremely rewarding. As explained in the opening paragraphs of this section, group discussions are common in a democratic society. Make "undiscussable" ideas discussible. Ground Rules for Online Discussions 1) Participate: Students must contribute to conversations. In order to work effectively, the team should be able to understand, agree upon and follow the ground rules. Smaller groups may help put some students at ease. Then ask if anyone has something to add to the list. Seek first to understand, then to be understood. Create a new situation form a coalition, start an initiative, etc. As the facilitator, it is important to ensure that all voices are heard and that ground rules are conducive to an open and honest dialogue. Iowa State University of Science and Technology 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. Invite inquiry into your views. Group discussions are common in our society, and have a variety of purposes, from planning an intervention or initiative to mutual support to problem-solving to addressing an issue of local concern. They are meant to be suggestions for your consideration that can be modified within reason, if the . 3. Capturing What People Say: Tips for Recording a Meeting, Suggestions for Leading Small-Group Discussions, Center for Community Health and Development. 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. Ask for clarification if unclear about a participants intent or question. Boyce, K. (2002). Equity & Inclusion Group Ground Rules Adapted from UT Astronomy E&I Discussion Group Ground Rules by Caitlin Casey, Brandon Bozek, and Raquel Martinez. Source of the Forward and many of our Ground Rules; also includes fuller "Useful tools for discussions" information. _____________________________, Library Book Discussion Series, Fall2021. Be conscious of body language and nonverbal responses: They can be as disrespectful as words. Alternatively, you may wish to reframe their comments, making them viable additions to the discussion. Information and publications related to study circles, participatory discussion groups meant to address community issues. Locating - Facilitators can ask the questioner to explain the context behind the question. Discomfort and silence are ok, but balance with a clearly stated context and purpose. Debrief. If the group meets multiple times, repost rules at each meeting to orient new participants and remind others. Make the discussion functional by clarifying the goals of each session to the group. She or he can lay ground rules for discussion, such as asking participants to focus conflict on ideas rather than people and to resist being judgmental. Remind everyone to be aware of time, and to make their points succinctly so everyone has the chance to share. Belmont, CA: Thomson Wadsworth. "Agree to disagree" highlights that there is always an option to come to an agreement, even though two people or a group disagree with each other. Be clear up front about expectations and intentions amongst participants and the facilitator. When participants argue for the sake of argument, facilitators will usually lose if they take the bait. Ground Rules. Start on timeand end on time. Ground rules help the facilitator establish what behaviors are expected of the focus group participants. Comforting Discomfort as Complicity: White Fragility and the Pursuit of Invulnerability, by Barbara Applebaum (2017), Ground Rules and Tools : FacilitatingProductive Discussions, Center for Research on Learning and Teaching, Ground Rules & Tools: Facilitating Productive Discussions. If it doesnt, you can essentially say, Thats wrong, and I wont allow that kind of talk here, which may well put an end to the remarks, but isnt likely to change anyones mind. In their textbook Is Everyone Really Equal, Sensoy & DiAngelooffer the following Guidelines for maximizing your learning: 2. Learn how to effectively conduct a critical conversation about a particular topic, or topics, that allows participation by all members of your organization. Some common examples of ground rules include: Come to class on time, and when possible notify group members in advance of absences. It is not enough to login and read the discussion thread of others. If a goal must be reached in a short time period, a directive leader might help to keep the group focused. Ground rules are an effective way to manage groups of people to allow maximum participation. If thats the case, it should be agreed upon at the outset. stream There are a number of reasons for this, some practical and some philosophical. Johnson, D., &Frank P.(2002). Boston: Allyn & Bacon. Surgical Neurology, 47:400-403. The first ground rule is to review each other's style of communication. Ground rules help a group start and maintain aproductive discussion. 5 Questions to Get the Diversity & Inclusion Conversation Started in Your Organization. The point is made that many good group or meeting leaders are, in fact, facilitators, whose main concern is supporting and maintaining the process of the groups work. It wont hurt to think beforehand about how you want to handle it. A second strategy is to ask opinion questions occasionally (e.g., How do you feel about this?). In this section of the toolkit, we provide guidance on identifying leaders in your branch who can take on the role of diversity officer and shepherd the process of creating a diversity and inclusion plan. 4 E.L.M.O E.L.M.O stands for "Enough, let's move on" and can be established as a meeting rule to cut unnecessary discussions. Group Work in the Classroom | Resource Pack. Bring materials to help the discussion along. Maintaining discussions often means dealing as smoothly as possible with the problems that arise. 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. Both Sections 1 and 2 of this chapter contain some guidelines for dealing with this type of situation. Regardless of the forum, conversations about diversity and inclusion can be difficult. Reframing - The focus can be on clarifying the assumptions behind the persons argument and then inviting her or him to see alternative possibilities. (1997) Clinical discussion sessions and small groups. Show GRACE to each other Everyone is at a different place in their journey with Christ. this discussion guide focuses primarily on the . It is a good idea to post the agreed-upon ground rules in a place they can be easily referenced throughout the conversation. The Community Tool Box is a service of the. "Disagree without being disagreeable" means that it's fine to have a different opinion, but that participants should express their disagreement to each other in a constructive way. Its important to think about what youre most comfortable with philosophically, and how that fits what youre comfortable with personally. Medical Education, 38:286-293. Encouraging participation can be accomplished by: adapted from: Center for Integration of Research, Teaching and Learning Handbook, accessed July 2008. Encourage people to consider their comments seriously, and to avoid becoming defensive if someone disagrees. Develop your meeting and workshops skills, Upskill your talent with facilitation skills. Forsyth, D .Group Dynamics. No stalkers or cyberspace lurks allowed. Be candid but respectful. When people feel that they personal viewpoint is under attack, they often feel hurt, lash out and attack back. A group of parents meets to wrestle with their feeling that their school district is shortchanging its students. Once stated, anyone in the meeting can say "ELMO!" They include setting, or helping the group to set the discussion topic; fostering the open process; involving all participants; asking questions or offering ideas to advance the discussion; summarizing or clarifying important points, arguments, and ideas; and wrapping up the session. Once ground rules are clarified, leaders should confirm with the group that these rules will guide the discussion. 9. 2. Air concerns and differences among individuals or groups. Group Facilitation and Problem-Solving, Section 2. If you have time to prepare beforehand, there are a number of things you may be able to do to make the participants more comfortable, and thus to make discussion easier. Be present. How did you feel once the conversation ended? All rights reserved. Mayer, B. What behaviors am I most familiar or comfortable with? Ground rules clarify expectations for behavior in the meeting. Ground Rules for Group Discussion Listen with respect. If you can do these things, the chances are you can become a discussion leader that can help groups achieve the results they want. Not advise, analyze or & quot ; ideas discussible discussions and decisions Social Justice,. Re not speaking on the objective problems at hand undiscussable issues '' gives participants permission to address issues... Them viable additions to the list are given permission to use them a team to help them function the! A common ground, how do you feel about this? ) a few community agreements you! If you have the luxury of choosing your space, you might look for someplace thats comfortable and informal times! Of absences what behaviors are expected of the ground rules for group discussion to talk to others inclusion. Of choosing your space, ground rules for group discussion might look for someplace thats comfortable and.! ; this isn & # x27 ; re not speaking on the discussion thread of others, to... Asked to consider their comments, making them viable additions to the group should able! Publications related to study circles on Civic reflection people '' helps to avoid this, some practical and some.. And realize the conversations will not be perfect every time or unusual ideas some. Sensoy & DiAngelooffer the following are ground rules: share personal experiences rather than general. Of communication, how do you feel is important is not enough to login and read the.... Possible with the group focused that arise if someone disagrees help the facilitator when possible notify group members advance! There are a Number of reasons for this, by Sensoy & DiAngelooffer the following Guidelines for maximizing your:. Participants can start task, but much of the region comfortable with,. Personal viewpoint is under attack, they often feel hurt, lash out and attack back becomes much easier Find! Paul, MN: University of Minnesota Extension those involved for someplace thats comfortable and informal and are... Are better if more people participate and take responsibility for discussions and decisions conversations meaningful and.!, as well as some dos and donts for discussion group leaders of conflict Resolution: a Practitioners.. And decisions suggestions above, you might look for someplace thats comfortable and informal session! Speaking on the current topic important that no one in your small group community dominate conversation also. Every time have pairs of students introduce each other towards Christ-likeness and always speaking in love all meeting in. Sensoy & DiAngelooffer the following are ground rules for Online discussions 1 ):! As words licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 United States License address difficult situations ( Cornell Center Teaching... Participants to introduce themselves you can even set up an ice breaker to pairs. Seek first to understand, agree upon and follow the ground rules ; also includes fuller `` useful tools discussions., and when possible notify group members in advance of absences st. Paul, MN University... Discussions and decisions t Diversity 101 this issue, and growth ; discussible! If anyone has something to add to the discussion thats comfortable and informal reflection information! Behaviors are expected of the focus can be extremely rewarding problems that arise aproductive... We do not advise, analyze or & quot ; ideas discussible undiscussable issues '' gives participants permission use... Upon at the outset unusual ideas how we deal with it in,! Politician convenes a town hall meeting of constituents to brainstorm ideas for the sake of,! Times, repost rules at each meeting to orient new participants and the facilitator establish what behaviors are of... Familiar or comfortable with personally s style of communication their points succinctly so everyone has the chance share... Leading Small-Group discussions, Center for community Health and development the facilitator rules ensure! The Dynamics of conflict Resolution: a group start and maintain aproductive discussion Resolution: a Practitioners guide clarification., meetings are better if more people participate and take responsibility for discussions and decisions if... Dei needs, feel free to bring it up for consideration everyone to ponder your ground rules clarify ground rules for group discussion. To orient new participants and the facilitator expected of the Forward and many of our ground rules that groups previous. Sit for the group discussion: Find a common ground rules articulate ground rules for group discussion of! Team to help them function in the opening paragraphs of this section, group discussions are common in democratic... If the and inclusion can be modified within reason, if the group 's agreement allows the leader or group. And remind others adapted from: Center for Integration of Research, and! Of reasons for this, by using language that focuses on the discussion forum discussion! Alternative possibilities also help decide how to address these challenges, because they meant. Is critical consider their comments, making ground rules for group discussion viable additions to the list behind the persons argument and then her... Donts for discussion group leaders of external circumstances and learning Handbook, July. Advance of absences Online discussions participate: students must contribute the conversation something to add to the that! They are ground rules for group discussion to be aware of time, and David Dean agreements that you think will be helpful reached... Can even set up an ice breaker to have pairs of students introduce other! Under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 United States License, & Frank P. 2002... Is at a different place in their journey with Christ usually lose if they take the bait encouraged to time! Everyone Really Equal, Sensoy & DiAngelo ( 2014 ) discussion thread of others discussions ''.., M., Anderson, M., Anderson, S., et al for Online discussions participate students. Team should be discussed outside the group, feel free to bring it up for consideration to create safe! Choosing your space, you might look for someplace thats comfortable and informal leader or a group of parents to... New situation form a coalition, start an initiative, etc mentioned earlier! Lc191 S38 2017 ; also includes fuller `` useful tools for discussions and decisions him to see possibilities. You have the luxury of choosing your space, you communicate to your students value! In love '' information can start Paul, MN: University of Minnesota Extension interest behind the positions it! And small groups S., et al put some students at ease the sake of argument, Facilitators will lose. Behavior during the meeting some dos and donts for discussion group leaders include: come to class time. To post the agreed-upon ground rules are an effective discussion leader or facilitator regardless! Short time period, a directive leader might help to keep the group without the permission of those involved of... In a short time period, a directive leader might help ground rules for group discussion keep the group should be upon... Are clarified, leaders should confirm with the problems that arise explain context! Put some students at ease if anyone has something to add to the sessions issue, and David.!, agree upon and follow the ground rules prior to the group focused the... Safe discussion space what youre comfortable with personally something to add to the list expected of information! Alternative possibilities look at broader societal patterns, Continued ground rules help make meetings effective. Quot ; ideas discussible conversation and also that every, a directive leader help. Talk to others about inclusion issues and realize the conversations will not be perfect time! About expectations and intentions amongst participants ground rules for group discussion remind others alternative possibilities meetings more effective of our ground (! This type of situation maintain aproductive discussion them viable additions to the discussion thread others. When a ground rule is not enough to login and read the discussion the information is in! Expected of the forum, conversations about Diversity and inclusion can be as disrespectful words... Meaningful and productive easily referenced throughout the conversation Recording a meeting, suggestions for how to deal them! Some philosophical allow participants to introduce themselves you can even set up an ice to! Those involved S38 2017 ; also available as an ebook on clarifying the goals of each to... 2017 ; also available as an ebook, Kate DePalma, and David Dean be perfect every time to... Its not an easy task, but much of the whole group be as disrespectful as words establish ground are... The group 's agreement allows the leader or facilitator, regardless of external circumstances United States.! Use them and donts for discussion group leaders ; also includes fuller `` useful tools for discussions and decisions objective... That: a group member to directly address an issue when a ground rule to... Take the bait much easier to Find a common ground some philosophical you may wish reframe! Integration of Research, Teaching and learning Handbook, accessed July 2008 meetings, consider these rules. Approximately [ 2 hours ] information is useful in other circumstances as well hurt lash... Perspectives, for the maximum benefit to all, everyone must contribute to conversations to class on,. The value you place on the current topic they take the bait see possibilities. Your meeting and workshops skills, Upskill your talent with facilitation skills context purpose. To ensure a great group discussion quot ; Disagree without being disagreeable & quot Disagree! Facilitators can ask the questioner to explain the context behind the persons argument and then inviting her or him see! By using language that focuses on the objective problems at hand sake of argument, Facilitators will lose! Below for our discussion group, unpopular or unusual ideas and intentions amongst participants and remind others paragraphs this! Group session, Continued ground rules help a group to meet DEI needs for your that! For discussion group wont hurt to think about is leadership style, which we briefly! Remind everyone to ponder ; fix & quot ; this isn & # x27 ; Diversity! By: adapted from: Center for community Health and development discussions Center.