Group Facilitation (BES 3141) Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts of facilitation principles, preparation, roles, and strategies based on the lecture notes from BES 3141 Group Facilitation.

What is the role of a facilitator in group processes?

A facilitator is a guide to help people move through a process together.

What should a facilitator avoid doing during discussions?

A facilitator shouldn't give opinions but should draw out ideas and opinions from the participants.

What is the focus of facilitation?

Facilitation focuses on HOW people participate, not just on WHAT is achieved.

What stance should a facilitator take during discussions?

A facilitator should remain neutral and never take sides.

What are the two components of facilitation mentioned?

Content and Process.

What is the difference between content and process in facilitation?

Content is about 'What' is discussed, while process is about 'How' the discussion happens.

What are some examples of content in a facilitation meeting?

Tasks, subjects for discussion, problems to be solved, and decisions made.

What are some examples of process in facilitation?

How relations are maintained, tools used, rules set, and group dynamics.

What is the role of a meeting leader compared to a facilitator?

The meeting leader may offer opinions to influence outcomes, while the facilitator remains neutral.

What can cause a facilitator to lose neutrality?

Changing members' words, taking sides, asking leading questions, and unconscious selling.

What can a facilitator do to maintain neutrality?

Check in with participants, observe body language, and assess changes in participation.

What are the 5 Rules of Facilitation?

Context, clear purpose, detailed agenda, necessary interventions, and being the instrument.

What is the 'Purpose' in the 5 P’s of Preparation?

The reason for holding the session and the key objectives.

What is meant by 'Product' in the 5 P’s of Preparation?

What is to be produced once the session is done, and how success will be measured.

Why is it important to know about participants before a session?

To understand their perspectives and ensure effective engagement.

What are 'Probable Issues' in the 5 P's of preparation?

Concerns that may arise and potential obstacles to achieving the session's purpose.

What does 'Process' refer to in the 5 P's of Preparation?

The steps taken during the meeting to achieve the purpose.

What should facilitators do to engage all members?

Design processes to engage and allow members to talk 80-90% of the time.

What is important to have in terms of planning?

Backup plans to overcome potential barriers.

What should an agenda for a facilitation session include?

Overall goal, specific objectives, roles, necessary pre-work, and needed discussion time.

What are some necessary elements for an effective agenda?

Topics to address, desired outcomes for each topic, and processes to support achieving outcomes.

How can a facilitator assess the success of a session?

By checking if the specific objectives and outcomes have been met.

What are the 5 Levels of Involvement in designing processes?

Lower time commitment to higher time commitment activities.

How should a facilitator determine the level of involvement needed?

By considering the activity, determining the necessary design, and estimating time.

What does the term 'convergence and alignment' refer to in facilitation?

The process of aligning group opinions and finding common ground during discussions.

What is meant by ownership and commitment in facilitation?

The responsibility and agreement by participants to support the outcomes of the process.

What type of agenda is referenced by Sam Kaner in 'Facilitators Guide to Participatory Decision Making'?

An effective agenda that designs processes to support group collaboration.

What is the significance of context in facilitation?

It influences the purpose and actions taken during the process.

Why is it important to keep the purpose crystal clear?

To ensure all members are focused and aligned with the session's goals.

What is the role of interventions in facilitation?

To make necessary adjustments to keep the process on track.

What does it mean when we say 'you are the instrument' in facilitation?

The facilitator is crucial to guiding the process and ensuring participant engagement.

What is body language important for facilitators?

It helps to gauge participant engagement and identify issues.

What is the importance of 'context' in setting up a facilitation session?

Context helps to frame the discussion and establish relevance.

What kind of questions should facilitators avoid?

Leading questions that may sway opinions.

What is a common mistake of facilitators related to assumptions?

Not checking assumptions can lead to misunderstanding and bias.

What should a facilitator do if they forget to check assumptions?

It is important to remedy that by asking clarifying questions.

What is 'unconscious selling' in facilitation?

When a facilitator unintentionally promotes their own ideas over others.

Why might a facilitator need to switch 'hats' during a session?

To alternate between the role of facilitator and participant when necessary.

What is a useful strategy for assessing participation levels?

Observing changes in body language and participant engagement.

What is the purpose of having a detailed process agenda?

To guide the facilitation work and stay aligned with the objectives.

What should facilitators do before a session regarding the participants?

They should gather information about the participants to tailor the session.

What kind of outcomes should each topic in the agenda have?

Clear outcomes that the group aims to achieve after discussions.

What can a facilitator do if certain topics face resistance?

Identify potential resistance in advance and plan strategies to address it.

How can facilitators confirm successful completion of a session?

By assessing if the aligned objectives and goals were met by participants.

What is the significance of 'special norms' in a facilitation session?

They guide behavior and interactions among participants during the meeting.

What is 'extensive discussion' in the context of facilitation?

Thorough discourse that allows in-depth exploration of topics.

How do facilitators create comfort in a session?

By selecting appropriate opening activities that make participants feel at ease.

What should facilitators do with their own opinions during facilitation?

They should keep them separate from the group discussions to maintain neutrality.

What does 'facilitation focuses on' specifically refer to?

It emphasizes the manner in which participants engage in the learning or planning process.

How do facilitators handle the risk of favoring one side in discussions?

By actively working to remain neutral and ensuring equal opportunity for all voices.

What is one way to ensure a well-structured meeting?

Have a clear agenda and focus on maintaining participant engagement throughout.

How can facilitators address power dynamics in group settings?

By promoting equitable participation and ensuring all voices are heard.

What is an essential trait for a facilitator regarding knowledge?

They should not position themselves as the sole source of knowledge or wisdom.

What should facilitators aim for in designing activities?

To create activities that promote collaboration and participation.