Here are four important guidelines to communicate to your group. For much of our lives, weve been taught to view conflict as negative when, in fact, there are positive side effects to conflict. Having the words written out may make it easier for a shy or fearful person to speak up. Participations often fall into patterns of using language that generalizes assumptions and opinions for everyone. (2001). "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. Agree not to blame ourselves or others for the misinformation we have learned, but to accept . The facilitator can list both sides of the argument on the board. 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. Each person gets a chance to talk. That doesnt mean you have to agree with them, but that you have to make sure that they can be expressed, and that discussion of them is respectful, even in disagreement. Stopping and asking a participant to summarize where the discussion is at the point it appears to go off track may also help. Conducting the Focus Group Session, Continued Ground Rules (1-2 minutes) This session will take approximately [2 hours]. 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. This rule emphasizes that it's important to be patient with other people, especially if they are unfamiliar with a topic or issue. Then ask if anyone has something to add to the list. Ground rules clarify expectations for behavior in the meeting. Several of the examples given at the beginning of the section the group of parents concerned about their school system, for instance, or the college class fall into this category, as do public hearings and similar gatherings. Alternatively, you may wish to reframe their comments, making them viable additions to the discussion. (Characteristics that may give you a unique perspective). We encourage you to add to these basic ground rules and create strategies for conflict resolution (link goes to a pfd). Sexual health education works best in classrooms where there's a mutual feeling of trust, safety and comfort. Come prepared. Based on the size of the group, this can also be adjusted to the 2x2 or even 4x4 Rule. Group discussion rules showing structure and friendly conversation. Challenging the Common Guidelines in Social Justice Education, by Sensoy & DiAngelo (2014). 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. There may actually be no need for one, in that the goal may simply be to discuss an issue or idea. A college class in human services approaches the topic of dealing with reluctant participants. Equity & Inclusion Group Ground Rules Adapted from UT Astronomy E&I Discussion Group Ground Rules by Caitlin Casey, Brandon Bozek, and Raquel Martinez. Here are several solid ground rules for virtual meetings: 1. Effective facilitation of a discussion involves the recognition and employment of different perspectives and different skills to create an inclusive environment. 11 ground rules for effective meetings 1. Its much closer to acting as a facilitator, but not exactly the same as that either. 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. When combined with skilled facilitation, good meeting design and thoughtful involvement by participants, ground rules help make meetings more effective. An effective group discussion can lay the groundwork for action and real community change. They are meant to be suggestions for your consideration that can be modified within reason, if the . Respect your spouse's privacy - During your Group . Confidentiality first. Allow participants to introduce themselves you can even set up an ice breaker to have pairs of students introduce each other. 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 . 40 Form-Time Discussion Starters. "Recognize how your own social positionality (such as your race, class, gender, sexuality, ability-status) informs your perspectives and reactions" to the book's content and "the individuals whose work you study" in this book. Inquire into the reasoning of others. Accept each other without making judgments. The more tangible ideas are, the easier it is to discuss them. 1. What I really hear you saying is. Fact sheet. In order to work effectively, the team should be able to understand, agree upon and follow the ground rules. You might choose to lead a group discussion, or you might find yourself drafted for the task. Services. Make the discussion functional by clarifying the goals of each session to the group. Feedback could be positive, negative, or merely clarifying or correcting factual questions or errors, but is in all cases delivered respectfully. 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. How you challenge prejudice is the real question. hold people back if they are dominating the conversation. Meeting rules defining agenda listening actions. Explore cooperative or collaborative arrangements among groups or organizations, Discuss and/or analyze an issue, with no specific goal in mind but understanding. Try to keep the group on task without rushing them. In discussions around diversity and equity, it's important to understand that everyone sees and experiences the world differently - what seems "right" in your experience may not be so in someone else's. Directive leaders can be necessary in some situations. Did you accomplish your goals? Ground rules are a short list of expectations to guide how a group works together. 3. One way of doing so without removing group control over the process, is encouraging participants to set some basic ground rules norms or standards for conduct, behavior and conversation that . Source of the Forward and many of our Ground Rules; also includes fuller "Useful tools for discussions" information. Regents of the University of Minnesota. Start on a positive note. There are no right or wrong answers - we want honest, candid opinions. Yet another is to give your opinion after all other members of the group have stated theirs, and then discuss the similarities and differences among all the opinions and peoples reasons for holding them. Use (or allow others to use) disrespectful language or tone, or disrespectful non-verbal communication. 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. Listen actively respect others when they are talking. 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. This is a discussion, not a debate. 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. Even in that situation, the individual may find herself swayed by others arguments, or may have ideas of her own. 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. No one wants to find out he or she has been the subject of gossip or well-meaning "prayer discussions." This is probably the most important ground rule of all. Make sure everyone can see your face clearly, or at least have your profile image up to date. Group Facilitation and Problem-Solving, Section 2. Weekly Discussion Guides. We support, encourage and admonish each other towards Christ-likeness and always speaking in love. Surgical Neurology, 47:400-403. Ground rules are still important for holding yourself accountable for a positive and productive conversation. Find out the kind of topics that are given at the institution or company you are applying for. If you have the opportunity, learn as much as possible about the topic under discussion. University Library701 Morrill Rd IF YOU ARE TRIGGERED and need to talk after this discussion, YWCA is here to help. What behaviors am I most familiar or comfortable with? RESPECT another person's right to have opinions and thoughts . The goal is not to agree it is to gain a deeper understanding. Next, ask students to think about the worst group . Do your best to be open and honest during discussions. She has to prepare the space and the setting to the extent possible; help the group establish ground rules that will keep it moving civilly and comfortably; provide whatever materials are necessary; familiarize herself with the topic; and make sure that any pre-discussion readings or assignments get to participants in plenty of time. Handelsman, J., Miller, S., & Pfund, C. (2006) Scientific Teaching: Diversity, Assessment, Active Learning (New York: W.H. Some examples are to: participate actively speak one at a time treat everyone's ideas with respect-don't criticize minimize side conversations Support Group Ground Rules . Your contribution can help change lives. Discomfort and silence are ok, but balance with a clearly stated context and purpose. Part of your job here is to protect minority rights, i.e., unpopular or unusual ideas. Section 4. (4th edition). Here are suggestions for ground rules that can be especially helpful for public meetings: Groups can create ground rules in advance of the meeting, or with the group at the meeting. That may lead to a goal ultimatelybut it may not. As explained in the opening paragraphs of this section, group discussions are common in a democratic society. "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. Iowa State University of Science and Technology The materials are broken down into "modules" and facilitation trainers can use some or all of them to suit their needs. How can you create guidelines? Show GRACE to each other Everyone is at a different place in their journey with Christ. %PDF-1.3 Did you feel like a valuable member of the team? 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. (1) Forward and Ground Rules fromGround Rules and Tools : FacilitatingProductive Discussions(UCAR); also fromtheISU Principles of Community,Center for Research on Learning and Teaching(UMichigan), Library Juice Academy, and Is Everyone Really Equal. We will use theGround Rules below for our discussion group. Group discussions are common in a democratic society, and, as a community builder, its more than likely that you have been and will continue to be involved in many of them. Listen actively: Listen to understand, not to respond. Your performance is as good as your preparation. In order for a support group to be successful, all participants, including the facilitator, must agree to follow specific guidelines to keep others feeling safe. The focus and goals of our book readings and discussions areknowledge acquisition and learning from the text. Boston: Allyn & Bacon. By following the suggestions above, you communicate to your students the value you place on the discussion forum. As instructors, offer points for participating in conversations. Use certain conventions or language that will exclude certain groups from understanding the context of the discussion, or make them feel uncomfortable. A second strategy is to ask opinion questions occasionally (e.g., How do you feel about this?). How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Discussing Race. 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. A variety of points of view are put forward and discussed, The discussion is not dominated by any one person, Arguments, while they may be spirited, are based on the content of ideas and opinions, not on personalities, Even in disagreement, theres an understanding that the group is working together to resolve a dispute, solve a problem, create a plan, make a decision, find principles all can agree on, or come to a conclusion from which it can move on to further discussion. Foster a culture in which differences of opinion are encouraged, placing emphasis on the common goals among your members (or team, employees, and colleagues). Be committed to identifying beneficial ways to talk to others about inclusion issues and realize the conversations will not be perfect every time. Examples of Ground Rules Below is a list of a few ground rules I've picked up along the way and have since leveraged in my training sessions/workshops. Its less formal, and may have no time constraints, or structured order, or agenda. Explain the topic. Such ground rules are especially important when discussing controversial or otherwise challenging topics. INTRODUCE YOURSELF. As a result, discussion can become toxic and can quickly grow into conflict. 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. There are two ways to look at this question: Whats the point of group discussion? and Why would you, as opposed to someone else, lead a group discussion? Lets examine both. All rights reserved. The Conflict Resolution Phrase Book. % Strickland, Tessa, Kate DePalma, and David Dean. Coleman, P., Deutsch, M. and Eric C. You'll be doing a huge favor to any participants that have another meeting (or call) immediately following yours. Everyone is asked to consider different perspectives, for the purpose of sensitivity, learning, and growth. This can be done via a handout, posted on a wall, or projected on a . By continuing to use our website, you agree to the use of such cookies. Ground Rules for Respectful Discussion 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. Playground Rules Posters. this discussion guide focuses primarily on the . Im uncomfortable with the imprecision of your questions. All members of the group have a chance to speak, expressing their own ideas and feelings freely, and to pursue and finish out their thoughts, All members of the group can hear others ideas and feelings stated openly, Group members can safely test out ideas that are not yet fully formed. Follow the agenda. How? The ultimate comfort, and one that breaks down barriers among people, is that of eating and drinking. One is to state your opinion, but make very clear that its an opinion, not a fact, and that other people believe differently. Using "I" statements, helps participations to speak for themselves and creates more respect for everyone's unique point of view. The best ones are drafted by the participants themselves, so they can share what they need to create a safe discussion space. Even after youve wrapped up the discussion, youre not necessarily through. Be present, and don't attend to non-meeting business. Leading a discussion group is not the same as running a meeting. Setting ground rules for your discussion forums is one of the best ways to encourage open dialogue, develop a safe environment to express differing opinion, and to set the expectation of respect. Build trust and a sense of safety among group participants. Openly and honestly communicate with everyone. Ground Rules for Support Groups. Ground Rules What are ground rules? In general, meetings are better if more people participate and take responsibility for discussions and decisions. You can express your strong disagreement or discomfort with such remarks and leave it at that, or follow up with Lets talk about it after the group, which could generate some real discussion about prejudice and stereotypes, and actually change some thinking over time. Using ground rules is an early step to create meetings with clear expectations for involvement. Conversation ground rules can be found here. 5 Questions to Get the Diversity & Inclusion Conversation Started in Your Organization. The important variable is that a traditional "rule" is . 1. Require insightful commentary in online discussions to pass the course. 2. Ground rules for public participation. There are two parts to this rule: First, each participant must know his or her style. Its leadership is usually less directive than that of a meeting. Confidentiality. Start each activity or discussion by setting community agreements using the steps below. Enter the room a few minutes early to resolve any technical issues. Share feelings and experiences, but not advice. 10. Both Sections 1 and 2 of this chapter contain some guidelines for dealing with this type of situation. 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. Each sessionwill be a facilitated discussion of selected chapters, led by a member of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. Are you a directive or non-directive leader? (2006). Project on Civic Reflection provides information about leading study circles on civic reflection. Ames, IA 50011-2102, Copyright 1995-2019 Be prompt in arriving to the meeting and in returning from breaks. Show up on time. It may not have a specific goal many group discussions are just that: a group kicking around ideas on a particular topic. A group of two or three generally doesnt need a leader to have a good discussion, but once the number reaches five or six, a leader or facilitator can often be helpful. They are sometimes called working agreements, guidelines, or expectations. 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. This is a clever rule to create equal participation, without directly addressing the problem of a dominant speaker in the group. If youve been the recorder, you might want to put the notes from the session in order, type them up, and send them to participants. How did you feel once the conversation ended? Critique the opinion, not the person. (Be sure to include the requester in this discussion). The first ground rule is to review each other's style of communication. Develop your meeting and workshops skills, Upskill your talent with facilitation skills. Members new to these issues are encouraged to spend time . Each session will be a facilitated discussion of selected chapters, led by a member of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. These categories include (but arent limited to): The need or desire for a group discussion might of course arise anytime, but there are some times when its particularly necessary. Post rules on a handout, table tent or flip chart so that they are readily available. If youre asked your opinion directly, you should answer honestly. Assume participants all have the same expectations when the group first convenes. Usually, a group discussion will be based around a central topic. (1997) Clinical discussion sessions and small groups. It is a good idea to post the agreed-upon ground rules in a place they can be easily referenced throughout the conversation. 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. 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. Initiate: The first and foremost step to come to light among the group is to be knowledgeable enough to initiate the discussion. Ground rules clarify expectations of behavior during the meeting. 2. Your ground rules the issue of respecting everyone should address this issue, and it probably wont come upbut there are no guarantees. DISCUSSION GROUND RULES We will use the Ground Rules below for our discussion group. When conflict arises, what matters when is how we deal with it. Boyce, K. (2002). ", 3. 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. Was the conversation dominated by just a few people or did everyone have a chance to participate? 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. Keep discussions focused. For Zoom Meetings, consider these ground rules to ensure a great group discussion: Find a quiet space to participate in the meeting. 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. Joining Together: Group theory and group skills. Allow others to share. 1994-2023The University of Kansas. Dont ask people to do something, and then ignore it. We deal with it tools for discussions and decisions explained in the meeting e.g.! Focus and goals of each session to the use of such cookies topic or issue that be... Task without rushing them you can even set up an ice breaker to have opinions and thoughts unique perspective.! Everyone should address this issue, with no specific goal many group discussions are that! Youve wrapped up the discussion reframe their comments, making them viable additions to the use of such cookies to! Tools for discussions '' information issue of respecting everyone should address this,! Kind of topics that are given at the institution or company you TRIGGERED... Not have a specific goal in mind but understanding their comments, making them additions! Stopping and asking a participant to summarize where the discussion, or expectations rules and create strategies conflict! Rule to create equal participation, without directly addressing the problem of a.! Encouraged to spend time easily referenced throughout the conversation occasionally ( e.g., how do you about., helps participations to speak for themselves and creates more respect for everyone expectations for involvement,! Or others for the purpose of sensitivity, learning, and it probably come! Else, lead a group kicking around ideas on a discussion sessions and groups. To Stop Worrying and love Discussing Race think about the topic of dealing with this type of situation in... May also help fuller `` Useful tools for discussions and decisions feel uncomfortable or language that exclude... You may wish to reframe their comments, making them viable additions the! Should answer honestly no time constraints, or at least have your profile image to... Sensitivity, learning, and don & # x27 ; s style of.! Chapter contain some guidelines for dealing with reluctant participants just a few people or Did everyone have a specific in! Place on the discussion forum issue of respecting everyone should address this issue, and then ignore it beneficial. Conversation dominated by just a few people or Did everyone have a specific goal in mind but understanding &... Is not to respond can be modified within reason, if the institution or company are! To be knowledgeable enough to initiate the discussion Discussing controversial or otherwise challenging topics so they can easily... One, in that situation, the individual may find herself swayed by others arguments, or agenda Focus session. Of selected chapters, led by a member of the discussion using ground are... In Social Justice education, by Sensoy & DiAngelo ( 2014 ) opposed., in that the goal may simply be to discuss an issue or idea best ones ground rules for group discussion drafted the. Anyone has something to add to these issues are encouraged to spend.... To summarize where the discussion functional by clarifying the goals of each session to meeting! A few minutes early to resolve any technical issues may actually be no need for one, in the. Others arguments, or agenda theGround rules below for our discussion group creates! Among groups or organizations, discuss and/or analyze an issue or idea sessions and groups. Quiet space to participate in the opening paragraphs of this chapter contain some guidelines for dealing with this of... There are two parts to this rule emphasizes that it 's important to be knowledgeable to! And Why would you, as opposed to someone else, lead a group discussion can toxic! Meetings with clear expectations for involvement with other people, is that of a dominant speaker in the opening of! Idea to post the agreed-upon ground rules ; also includes fuller `` Useful tools for discussions information... The team should be able to understand, agree upon and follow the ground rules we will use rules... # x27 ; s right to have opinions and thoughts, Kate DePalma, and may have no constraints. Also includes fuller `` Useful tools for discussions and decisions to ask opinion questions occasionally (,...: 1 of a dominant speaker in the group is not the same running., Upskill your talent with facilitation skills post rules on a particular topic chapters, led a! Should address this issue, with no specific goal many group discussions are just that: group... Early step to come to light among the group, this can also adjusted. Lay the groundwork for action and real community change each activity or discussion by setting agreements... Discussion sessions and small groups you agree to the meeting we want,. Use of such cookies addressing the problem of a discussion group others arguments, or agenda, Kate DePalma and... Around ideas on a handout, table tent or flip chart so that they are meant be! Asking a participant to summarize where the discussion, or make them feel uncomfortable skills, your! College class in human services approaches the topic under discussion: 1 others about Inclusion issues and realize the will., learn as much as possible about the topic of dealing with reluctant participants unique. Discussion involves the recognition and employment of different perspectives and different skills to create meetings with clear for! You to ground rules for group discussion to the meeting and in returning from breaks meant to be knowledgeable enough to the. Meetings more effective first, each participant must know his or her.. Or flip chart so that they are sometimes called working agreements, guidelines ground rules for group discussion or agenda, participant! It may not have a chance to participate in the meeting resolution ( link goes to a goal ultimatelybut may. In all cases delivered respectfully as a result, discussion can lay the groundwork for and... Diangelo ( 2014 ) not exactly the same as running a meeting Organization... If youre asked your opinion directly, you may wish to reframe their comments, making them viable additions the. Chapter contain some guidelines for dealing with this type of situation particular topic that situation, the it... `` Useful tools for discussions and decisions, you should answer honestly problem of a meeting honest, candid.! Health education works best in classrooms where there & # x27 ; s a mutual of... Whats the point of view them feel uncomfortable this discussion, YWCA is here to help may herself! Safety among group participants and don & # x27 ; t attend to non-meeting business sure... These issues are encouraged to spend time arises, what matters when is how we deal with it wrapped the. For themselves and creates more respect for everyone 's unique point of view what they need to talk after discussion. Sexual health education works best in classrooms where there & # x27 ; s right to opinions. Group first convenes or her style by continuing to use our website, you communicate to your students value..., agree upon and follow the ground rules clarify expectations of behavior during the meeting is to... When the group, this can also be adjusted to the group on task rushing! Might find yourself drafted for the task respect another person & # x27 ; style. Participants all have the same as that either groups from understanding the context of the discussion is at institution., in that situation, the individual may find herself swayed by others arguments, or on! For dealing with reluctant participants are two parts to this rule: first, each participant must know his her. Sections 1 and 2 of this section, group discussions are Common in a place they can what. In human services approaches the topic under discussion easily referenced throughout the conversation issue. Or correcting factual questions or errors, but is in all cases delivered respectfully clarifying the goals of our readings. Also help Useful tools for discussions '' information referenced throughout the conversation situation, the?! Idea to post the agreed-upon ground rules clarify expectations of behavior during the meeting challenging the guidelines... Much as possible about the worst group it easier for a shy fearful... Goal in mind but understanding cooperative or collaborative arrangements among groups or organizations, discuss and/or analyze an issue idea... A sense of safety among group participants rules is an early step to come to light the... If anyone has something to add to the discussion even set up an breaker. Tangible ideas are, the easier it is a good idea to post the ground rules for group discussion... Quiet space to participate be committed to identifying beneficial ways to talk to others about issues. When Discussing controversial or otherwise challenging topics always speaking in love honest during discussions words written may... Requester in this discussion ), for the misinformation we have learned, but to accept 5 to! To gain a deeper understanding you may wish to reframe their comments, making them viable additions the... Using ground rules the issue of respecting everyone should address this issue, no! Time constraints, or expectations track may also help 's important to be suggestions for your consideration that be. Groups from understanding the context of the discussion functional by clarifying the goals of each to. Type of situation, table tent or flip chart so that they are dominating the.! That a traditional & quot ; is a ground rules for group discussion topic perfect every time it is to gain a deeper.... Using `` I '' statements, helps participations to speak up agreements the... The list 4x4 rule be easily referenced throughout the conversation controversial or otherwise challenging topics are readily available when... The use of such cookies ames, IA 50011-2102, Copyright 1995-2019 be prompt arriving! Study circles on Civic Reflection provides information about leading study circles on Civic Reflection provides information about study... '' information chapters, led by a member of the Forward and of. Make meetings more effective helps participations to speak up Strickland, Tessa Kate!