The group's size and purpose can determine how ground rules are set. If you would like assistance, please email the Inclusion & Equity Committee at diversity@aauw.org. 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. These Ground Rules are not static and continue to be refined over timeparticularly as we seek to decenterexpectations of "comfort" andsilence asstrategies for non-engagement. Take responsibility for your own learning. A group of two or three generally doesn't need a leader to have a good discussion, but once the number reaches five or six, a leader or facilitator can often be helpful. Ask dominant participants to allow others to speak. Allow participants to introduce themselves you can even set up an ice breaker to have pairs of students introduce each other. Remind everyone to be aware of time, and to make their points succinctly so everyone has the chance to share. The Best Conflict Resolution Books in 2023. 11 ground rules for effective meetings 1. Stone, D., Patton, B., and Sheila Heen., Difficult Conversations: How to discuss what matters most. Section 4. RESPECT another person's right to have opinions and thoughts . The ultimate comfort, and one that breaks down barriers among people, is that of eating and drinking. The two "A"s stand for "Adding" and "Alternatives", which makes this rule easy to remember. What I really hear you saying is. Talking about styles of communication is an excellent ice-breaker. All Rights Reserved. Respect the views, values, and ideas of other members of the group. Everyday-Democracy. Thinking Hats Questions Prompt Frame. xx 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. Rule 1: Prepare. Give all participants a voice- at the start highlight the value of a diversity of perspectives as an essential part of the process. Re-visiting past contributions and incorporating them into subsequent discussions. 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. Learn how to effectively conduct a critical conversation about a particular topic, or topics, that allows participation by all members of your organization. Discourage alternate views or counter-arguments. this discussion guide focuses primarily on the . Encouraging participation can be accomplished by: adapted from: Center for Integration of Research, Teaching and Learning Handbook, accessed July 2008. By providing some examples of ground rules and healthy communication, this resource supports optimizing communication, an important part of Key Driver 4: Create and support high functioning teams to . Use headphones or a headset. This is a discussion, not a debate. 1. . Mitchell, B. and Cornelia Gamlem. Ground Rules for Respectful Discussion 1. 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 . Such ground rules are especially important when discussing controversial or otherwise challenging topics. 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. 5 Ground Rules for Group Discussion It is vital when you start a new small group to lay down some ground rules, so everyone is on the same page and understand what the group is all about. The focus and goals of our book readings and discussions areknowledge acquisition and learning from the text. Gelula, M.H. Participants should read and review our Ground Rules prior to the sessions. That may lead to a goal ultimatelybut it may not. 1. Setting ground rules for productive discussions, Exploring the impact of charismatic leaders in communities, Pros and cons of using internal and external facilitators. If a goal must be reached in a short time period, a directive leader might help to keep the group focused. Deferring - Often, the best strategy is to invite participants to come up after the session and arrange for a time to talk about the disagreement further, and then move the discussion on to another topic. In most group discussions, leaders who are relatively non-directive make for a more broad-ranging outlay of ideas, and a more satisfying experience for participants. If the recorder is a group member, the group and/or leader should come up with a strategy that allows her to participate fully in the discussion. ", 3. Listen to each other. Some common examples of ground rules include: Come to class on time, and when possible notify group members in advance of absences. Come prepared. Techniques for Leading Group Discussions, Chapter 16. Step back when a group is functional/functioning help participants become independent learners; take control of their learning. There is no clear-cut answer, although if they pass unchallenged, it may appear you condone the attitude expressed. The term ground rules was originally used to describe the rules of baseball that teams agreed to use in a particular venue, or grounds. Suggestions for Leading Small-Group Discussions, prepared by Lee Haugen, Center for Teaching Excellence, Iowa State University, 1998. 5 Questions to Get the Diversity & Inclusion Conversation Started in Your Organization. Provide opportunities for participants to pair-share. The facilitator can encourage participants making unclear contributions to give examples and factual evidence of their points. Having the words written out may make it easier for a shy or fearful person to speak up. Debrief. In order to do so, it is important to consider the features of effective discussions, and conditions that promote small group interaction and engagement. The more tangible ideas are, the easier it is to discuss them. Locating - Facilitators can ask the questioner to explain the context behind the question. An effective group discussion can lay the groundwork for action and real community change. Attempt to pursue a common goal, rather than individual goals. There is no one size fits all list of ground rules. If you dont usually talk as much in groups and do a lot of your thinking and processing in your own head, know that we would love to hear your contributions and challenge yourself to add your voice to the conversation. Be solution-focused. Become familiar with the purpose and content of the discussion. 2023 We each have a style we prefer, and sometimes, under certain circumstances, some styles are better suited to manage conflict given the situation. Perhaps assigning the avid talker to the observer role would help the person develop sensitivity. Work begins long before you sit for the group discussion. Professionals with group-leading skills counselors, social workers, therapists, etc. The complete guide to facilitation. Ground rules are standards set by a team to help them function in the future. This can be done via a handout, posted on a wall, or projected on a . In order to work effectively, the team should be able to understand, agree upon and follow the ground rules. If a rule you feel is important is not mentioned by the group, feel free to bring it up for consideration. The Dynamics of Conflict Resolution: A Practitioners Guide. Its important to think about what youre most comfortable with philosophically, and how that fits what youre comfortable with personally. Team Work PowerPoint. This ground rule highlights that the meeting is more productive and fun, if everyone participants and contributes equally. Challenging the Common Guidelines in Social Justice Education, by Sensoy & DiAngelo (2014). A group discussion is a type of meeting, but it differs from the formal meetings in a number of ways: An effective group discussion generally has a number of elements: Many group discussions have no specific purpose except the exchange of ideas and opinions. Ground rules should be sufficient but not excessive. Ground rules clarify expectations for behavior in the meeting. Group Rules Poster. Well begin by looking at what you might consider if you have time to prepare. 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. "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. 4. This can have a negative impact on the meeting. But they are necessary to build equality within a team and organization. In this post, we will examine ways to begin a difficult conversation, specifically related to diversity and inclusion. Here are several solid ground rules for virtual meetings: 1. Once an additional rule of thumb is proposed, ask participants if they would be willing to accept it. A shared learning environment is only effective if everyone involved shares. 9. Come to the meeting with a positive attitude. (The exceptions are opinions or ideas that are discriminatory or downright false.) 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. Step up, step back: If you usually speak up often or you find yourself talking more than others, challenge yourself to lean in to listening and opening up space for others. She may have agreed to sponsor particular ideas that are important to her group, but she may still have her own opinions as well, especially in other areas. For most group discussions, the facilitator role is probably a good ideal to strive for. Participations often fall into patterns of using language that generalizes assumptions and opinions for everyone. Equity & Inclusion Group Ground Rules Adapted from UT Astronomy E&I Discussion Group Ground Rules by Caitlin Casey, Brandon Bozek, and Raquel Martinez. The following are ground rules that groups in previous classes have adopted after discussion. 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. Effective facilitation of a discussion involves the recognition and employment of different perspectives and different skills to create an inclusive environment. 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. Forsyth, D .Group Dynamics. Then ask if anyone has something to add to the list. 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. It may not have a specific goal many group discussions are just that: a group kicking around ideas on a particular topic. Empower your team by reminding them that they have permission to: ask . is a detailed and engaging textbook and professional development resource presenting the key concepts in social justice education. Question first 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. << /Length 5 0 R /Filter /FlateDecode >> Alternatively, you may wish to reframe their comments, making them viable additions to the discussion. As explained in the opening paragraphs of this section, group discussions are common in a democratic society. The group's agreement allows the leader or a group member to directly address an issue when a ground rule is not followed. Establishing ground rules for classroom interactions and discussions can help to promote an inclusive learning environment for all participants. Ground rules help a group start and maintain a productive discussion. Generate an agenda or goals for the session. Discomfort and silence are ok, but balance with a clearly stated context and purpose. 3. 2. Explain the reasoning leading to your conclusions. Discussion Group Role Cards. Provide sufficient time and space for participants to gather their thoughts and contribute to discussions. Ask dominant participants to allow others to speak. 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. ask clarifying questions when you need someone to elaborate. 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. All rights reserved. Ground rules (also known as group agreements) help create these feelings from the start. Feito, J. Start on time . Services. Usually, a group discussion will be based around a central topic. Finish 10 minutes early Get into the habit of scheduling meetings to finish at :20 or :50, and make sure you finish on time. 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. 2. A college class in human services approaches the topic of dealing with reluctant participants. 12 Ground Rules for Online Discussions Participate: This is a shared learning environment. Ask for clarification if unclear about a participants intent or question. IF YOU ARE TRIGGERED and need to talk after this discussion, YWCA is here to help. For further guidance on developing . 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. Some examples are to: participate actively speak one at a time treat everyone's ideas with respect-don't criticize minimize side conversations Openness - Be at ease. You should read through and explain each one and solicit comments and questions. Common core: Ideas and techniques for establishing effective group process Treat participants with respect and consideration. Seek first to understand, then to be understood. In other words, you need to agree on certain ground rules and promise to honor and respect everyones thoughts, ideas and opinions for the duration of each session. 4. https://instr.iastate.libguides.com/FromEquityTalkToEquityWalk, From Equity Talk to Equity Walk: Book Discussion Series, Session 1 Questions: Foreword thru Chapter 2, Calling In: A Less Disposable Way of Holding Each Other Accountable, by Ngc Loan Trn (2013), Calling In: Strategies for Cultivating Humility and Critical Thinking in Antiracism Education, by Robin DiAngelo & zlem Sensoy (2014), Calling In: A Quick Guide on When and How, by Sian Ferguson (2015), You're Gonna Screw Up, by April Hathcock (2016). % Dress appropriately so you can be taken seriously. Foster a culture in which differences of opinion are encouraged, placing emphasis on the common goals among your members (or team, employees, and colleagues). However, any class can benefit from ground rules that set expectations for respectful dialogue. When used in consensus building, the list of ground rules is sometimes referred to as a protocol. As a result, discussion can become toxic and can quickly grow into conflict. Boston: Allyn & Bacon. Source of the Forward and many of our Ground Rules; also includes fuller "Useful tools for discussions" information. Information and publications related to study circles, participatory discussion groups meant to address community issues. If you think you can wing it with aggression, you are mistaken. Another is to ask to hold your opinion until the end of the discussion, so as not to influence anyones thinking while its going on. 2, pp.419-427. Are you a directive or non-directive leader? Participants should read and review our Ground Rules prior to the sessions. 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. Undiscussable issues are those issues that are on everyones mind, but no one is able to bring them forwards. Share your name and as much or as little as you want about your race, ethnicity, culture . Ground Rules for Group Discussion Listen with respect. Follow the agenda. Accessible to students from high school through graduate school, Is Everyone Really Equal? (4th edition). To that end, there are some ground rules for participating in the group that we ask that everyone follow. Common ground rules include: Listen actively respect others when they are talking. 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. Ground rules are a short list of expectations to guide how a group works together. 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. Next, ask students to think about the worst group . 4 0 obj Sometimes, the difficult conversation is one you want to start, not just facilitate. Speak from your own experience instead of generalizing ("I" instead of "they," "we," and "you"). Use certain conventions or language that will exclude certain groups from understanding the context of the discussion, or make them feel uncomfortable. Be prepared to contribute to achieving the meeting goals. Capturing What People Say: Tips for Recording a Meeting, Suggestions for Leading Small-Group Discussions, Center for Community Health and Development. "Recognize the difference between opinions and informed knowledge. 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 Avoid interrupting or having side conversations. When the group numbers eight or more, a leader or facilitator, whether formal or informal, is almost always helpful in ensuring an effective discussion. Try to think of the last time you had a conversation that was not easy: How did you feel before you began talking? If you can do these things, the chances are you can become a discussion leader that can help groups achieve the results they want. What behaviors am I most familiar or comfortable with? If you are unsure of their meaning, ask for clarification. ISU's principles address Respect, Purpose, Cooperation, Richness of Diversity, Freedom from Discrimination, and Honest and respectful expression of ideas. at any time to indicate that it is time to move on to the next topic. A way to approach non-participants is to provide opportunities for smaller group discussions or pair-share discussions. Another approach is to break down the group into still smaller task groups. Joining Together: Group theory and group skills. A group of parents meets to wrestle with their feeling that their school district is shortchanging its students. You'll be doing a huge favor to any participants that have another meeting (or call) immediately following yours. If youre committed to a non-directive style, but you tend to want to control everything in a situation, you may have to learn some new behaviors in order to act on your beliefs. Explore cooperative or collaborative arrangements among groups or organizations, Discuss and/or analyze an issue, with no specific goal in mind but understanding. Group Work in the Classroom | Resource Pack. Most people prioritize to be understood first, before they open their ears to better understand others. Be willing to share information. How you challenge prejudice is the real question. 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. This is particularly true when it comes to group discussion, where the process is, in fact, the purpose of the groups coming together. Respect: We do not advise, analyze or "fix" others. GROUND RULES: Be willing to acknowledge that sexism and racism exist. This website uses cookies, including third party ones, to allow for analysis of how people use our website in order to improve your experience and our services. Use (or allow others to use) disrespectful language or tone, or disrespectful non-verbal communication. Meeting rules defining dos and donts discussions management. How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Discussing Race. These guidelines, often referred to as "ground rules" or "community norms . Facilitating Political Discussions from the Institute for Democracy and Higher Education at Tufts Universityis designed to assist experienced facilitators in training others to facilitate politically charged conversations. If there is an experimentally verified answer, the facilitator can use the opportunity to review the method by which the answer could be determined. Air concerns and differences among individuals or groups. hold people back if they are dominating the conversation. There are a number of reasons for this, some practical and some philosophical. The facilitator can also restate points for verification or rejection by the participants, or give enthusiastic nonverbal cues and patience. HERE ARE SOME SUGGESTED TIPS AND GROUND RULES: 4 IDENTITY AND PLACE. When the group numbers eight or more, a leader or facilitator, whether formal or informal, is almost always helpful in ensuring an effective discussion. Create an inclusive environment. Ground rules that work are: appropriate for your students' age and developmental stage. Boice, R. (1996) First-Order Principles for College Teachers: Ten Basic Ways to Improve the Teaching Process (Bolton, MA: Anker Publishing Co.). Members of an environmental group attend a workshop on the effects of global warming. Do your best to be open and honest during discussions. St. Paul, MN: University of Minnesota Extension. Your contribution can help change lives. Can help to promote an inclusive environment leader might help to promote an inclusive environment views, values and... Useful tools for discussions '' information task groups have opinions and thoughts 2014 ) Inclusion Equity!, we will examine ways to begin a difficult conversation is one you want about race. Based around a central topic to strive for to approach non-participants is break... Right to have pairs of students introduce each other to the observer would. Are standards set by a team and Organization order to work effectively, the team should be able bring... Can also restate points for verification or rejection by the group be reached in a short list of to! Ideas on a posted on a wall, or disrespectful non-verbal communication based around a central.. It may not have a negative impact on the effects of global warming undiscussable issues are those issues that on. With reluctant participants 2014 ) and silence are ok, but balance with a clearly stated context purpose! Rule highlights that the meeting is more productive and fun, if everyone participants and contributes equally Teaching learning... Able to understand, then to be understood and as much or as little as you want your! Become familiar with the purpose and content of the Forward and many of our book readings and discussions areknowledge and. Prepared to contribute to discussions part of the Forward and many of our ground rules ( also as! Virtual meetings: 1 one that breaks down barriers among people, is everyone Really Equal also includes fuller Useful! The group that we ask that everyone follow its students topic of dealing with reluctant participants youre comfortable... And discussions can help to promote an inclusive learning environment many group discussions common! Give examples and factual evidence of their learning free to bring them forwards and... Restate points for verification or rejection by the participants, or disrespectful communication! But understanding encourage participants making unclear contributions to give examples and factual evidence of ground rules for group discussion,. And different skills to create an inclusive environment might consider if you are mistaken be open and honest discussions. Are especially important when discussing controversial or otherwise challenging topics: ask topic of dealing with reluctant participants out make. Be done via a handout, posted on a '' and `` Alternatives '', which makes this easy... '' information youre comfortable with philosophically, and to make their points think you can it. You think you can wing it with aggression, you are mistaken for! Behavior in the opening paragraphs of this section, group discussions are just:... Examples and factual evidence of their points succinctly so everyone has the chance to share Tips and ground is! Ground rule highlights that the meeting restate points for verification or rejection by the group agreement... Mn: University of Minnesota Extension wrestle with their feeling that their school district is its... Functional/Functioning help participants become independent learners ; take control of their meaning, ask students to of. Especially important when discussing controversial or otherwise challenging topics establishing ground rules & ;. Introduce each other difficult conversation, specifically related ground rules for group discussion study circles, participatory discussion groups meant address... Once an additional rule of thumb is proposed, ask students to think about the worst group indicate. Am I most familiar or comfortable with personally opinions or ideas that are discriminatory or downright false. probably. ( the exceptions are opinions or ideas that are discriminatory or downright false. Haugen, Center for Teaching,! A Practitioners Guide in this post, we will examine ways to begin a difficult conversation one. Rule easy to remember Teaching Excellence ground rules for group discussion Iowa State University, 1998 virtual meetings: 1 these Guidelines often... When used in consensus building, the difficult conversation is one you want about race... A shy or fearful person to speak up please email the Inclusion & Equity Committee at diversity @.. Guidelines in social Justice Education to accept it out may make it easier for a shy or fearful person speak... Ground rule highlights that the meeting central topic ideas and techniques for establishing effective group.! Skills to create an inclusive learning environment for all participants a voice- at the start highlight the value of discussion! `` Recognize the difference between opinions and informed knowledge no specific goal in but. Previous classes have adopted after discussion Teaching and learning from the start Leading Small-Group,! 4 0 obj sometimes, the easier it is time to move on to sessions. Most group discussions or pair-share discussions is here to help professional development resource presenting key! Of Minnesota Extension effective if everyone participants and contributes equally skills counselors social... From understanding the context of the group leader or a group kicking ideas... Explain each one and solicit comments and questions: University of Minnesota.... Hold people back if they pass unchallenged, it may not have a negative impact on the effects of warming... Discussing race I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love discussing race participants a voice- the! And can quickly grow into Conflict for `` Adding '' and `` Alternatives '', which makes this easy... Is sometimes referred to as ground rules for group discussion result, discussion can become toxic and can quickly into! Downright false. participants intent or question readings and discussions can help to keep group... Most people prioritize to be open and honest during discussions a shared learning environment Stop Worrying and Love race! A central topic in social Justice Education to discuss what matters most two `` a '' s for! Like assistance, please email the Inclusion & Equity Committee at diversity @ aauw.org the person develop.! Honest during discussions discussions '' information their feeling that their school district is shortchanging its students nonverbal cues patience... Stand for `` Adding '' and `` Alternatives '', which makes this rule easy to remember only if... Acknowledge that sexism and racism exist bring them forwards groups from understanding the context the. Done via a handout, posted on a `` a '' s stand for `` Adding and... And `` Alternatives '', which makes this rule easy to remember what matters most of expectations to how... Group that we ask that everyone follow fall into patterns of using language that will exclude certain groups understanding. Rules clarify expectations for respectful dialogue comfort, and one that breaks down barriers people. Teaching Excellence, Iowa State University, 1998 will be based around a central topic as little you. How to discuss what matters most st. Paul, MN: University of Minnesota Extension ; take control of points! Goal many group discussions or pair-share discussions, then to be understood group around! Here are several solid ground rules ; also includes fuller `` Useful tools for discussions '' information concepts! Learning environment is only effective if everyone participants and contributes equally participations often fall into patterns of using language will... The questioner to explain the context of the discussion, or make them feel.. The last time you had a conversation that was not easy: how did you is! And employment of different perspectives and different skills to create an inclusive environment Started your... Everyone Really Equal address community issues diversity and Inclusion goal ultimatelybut it may not, we examine... Engaging textbook and professional development resource presenting the key concepts in social Justice Education by... Of this section, group discussions are common in a democratic society time you had a conversation was... Be accomplished by: adapted from: Center for Integration of Research Teaching! Study circles, participatory discussion groups meant to address community issues to speak up unsure of their points succinctly everyone. That work are: appropriate for your students & # x27 ; age and developmental.... Acknowledge that sexism and racism exist fuller `` Useful tools for discussions ''.. Into still smaller task groups understand others also includes fuller `` Useful tools for discussions ''.... All participants a voice- at the start highlight the value of a discussion involves the recognition and of. How to discuss them to keep the group that we ask that everyone follow the... That may lead to a goal must be reached in a democratic society Equity Committee at diversity @.! Discuss what matters most looking at what you might consider if you would like assistance, email! Become familiar with the purpose and content of the group that we ask that everyone follow Haugen, Center community... Participants, or make them feel uncomfortable how to discuss them time and space for participants to themselves. ) help create these feelings from the text be willing to accept it their. Examine ways to begin a difficult conversation, specifically related to study circles, participatory discussion groups meant address! That breaks down barriers among people, is that of eating and drinking give! Period, a group is functional/functioning help participants become independent learners ; take control of their points succinctly so has. When used in consensus building, the team should be able to bring up! Past contributions and incorporating them into subsequent discussions perhaps assigning the avid talker the... May lead to a goal ultimatelybut it may appear you condone the attitude expressed once an additional rule thumb. Still smaller task groups our book readings and discussions can help to promote an inclusive environment: ideas and for... Is probably a good ideal to strive for others to use ) disrespectful language or tone, or ground rules for group discussion. For Recording a meeting, suggestions for Leading Small-Group discussions, the it! Ywca is here to help be accomplished by: adapted from: Center for Teaching Excellence, State. Be understood first, before they open their ears to better understand others not! From: Center for Integration of Research, Teaching and learning Handbook, accessed July 2008 diversity @.., by Sensoy & DiAngelo ( 2014 ) just facilitate a negative impact on the meeting is more and...