tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68459159488341989472023-11-16T00:06:37.878-07:00Facilitate with Fun, Fervor and Focus!Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-88516444674685015692015-02-03T08:32:00.000-07:002015-02-03T08:33:45.553-07:00Facilitate ... 7 days, 4 clients, countless lessons!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For seven of the past nine days, I had the immense pleasure and
challenge of facilitating with four different clients; varied in numbers,
organization role, mission, structure, etc. Here are a few of the things I re-learned
from this intensive experience.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">People truly have the best intentions about contributing to the group and
doing good work</i></b>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">From politicians to volunteers to entrepreneurs to staff, each
person in the workshops and retreats worked really hard, listened with
intensity, offered perspectives freely and openly, and with great enthusiasm. I
asked participants to use the approach of listening to each other, and then building
on ideas by saying “Yes … and”. This approach challenged and changed
participants’ thought process. </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Prepare, prepare, prepare … and then let go to meet the needs of the
group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The facilitation sessions ranged from a four-day retreat
with politicians and senior leadership staff to a strategic thinking session
with four people to a one-day planning day with a volunteer organization and
finally, a half day team building session with staff, volunteers, and board
members. Obviously, all required different designs and activities to hold conversations
and make decisions. I worked long and hard to prepare; meeting and talking with
the clients and going through my extensive on-line and print facilitation
methods, and creating an overall design and specific activities that I thought
best matched the desired results. Then I invited participants to co-design with
me; discussing the intent of the overall session and the reason for each
activity I suggested. During the four-day retreat, we continuously adjusted the
topics and the timing to build on energy of participants, to follow important
ideas, and to best meet changing priorities. A half-day session requires less
flexing of the topic and I adjusted activities based more on my intuitive
reading of the group. For the strategizing session with four individuals, I prepared
several creativity exercises to encourage out of the box thinking. I determined
with the group that they really wanted to talk at length with each other; bringing
their natural creativity. I only used one of the creativity exercises and that
was fine.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">People have very different knowledge and experience of facilitation!</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The participants in one of the groups had never worked in
small discussion groups before. They willingly participated in various small
group activities: pair-talk-share; model merging; standing trio talks; walk and
talk; etc. At the end of the session, they said that they were impressed by how
people talked more freely in the small groups, how they delved more deeply into
the topics; and how similar ideas and themes were quickly identified when the
small groups reported back.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Work and Play!</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">People like to laugh, to move, and often to try something a
bit out of their comfort zone. Recreation breaks were so important; whether it
was three hours during one day of the four-day retreat or two minutes of a fun
moving activity during the half-day session. Sitting is the new smoking! Get up
and move! People might find a new idea when they do. I use images to get people
thinking about ideas in a unique and fun way. </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Embrace emotions.</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">During the four sessions, emotions ran rampant in the best
way! Participants cried when talking about their personal experiences; spoke
passionately, challenged each other by saying “I don’t agree”; hugged each other;
said “This is such fun!”; said “I don’t understand and I am frustrated”. One group
agreed as a behaviour principle that they would never walk out of the room and instead,
could stand and announce the need for a time-out. All participants at the end
of each session applauded and high-fived each other and me. I re-learned again
and again the importance of acknowledging and accepting the emotions (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Thank you for sharing how you feel. Take a
minute and then continue talking if you wish</i>.) and inviting people to
explain their emotional reaction (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How can
this emotion help us today as we discuss the topic</i>?). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Make no assumptions; or if you do, understand you are making assumptions,
and then test them.</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I know that I make many assumptions about participants; it’s
only natural. I try to identify my assumptions before facilitating and then test
them for truth during the sessions. Some of my assumptions as I went into the
seven days were that high powered decision-makers know facilitation methods; most
volunteer Board members of volunteer societies understand how non-profit organizations
operate; one group would embrace creativity activities; and people will want
long recreation breaks. Each of these assumptions was slightly off and I had to
adjust my approach to best serve the participants. I also asked participants to
state their assumptions about a topic and then ask each other what they thought.
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(Here is what I think is going on; what
do you think?)</i></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pace myself!</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">While I had high energy and productivity throughout the
seven out of nine days, I know that I am better mentally, physically and emotionally
with more breaks between facilitation sessions. I loved all of this work and having
experienced it, will pay attention to how much I schedule facilitation sessions
in a short time frame.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">My facilitation blog question:</b>
What have you learned or re-learned from extensive and intensive facilitation
work held in a short time frame?</span></div>
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-91508642936308713282014-09-23T16:31:00.000-06:002014-09-23T16:31:09.183-06:00Facilitate … using a freehand Wordle<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You have likely created Wordles online!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Now, use a freehand version as a fun and meaningful facilitation technique.
Recently, I facilitated a one-hour session with a healthy community coalition
to gain input about social, cultural, economic, and leisure aspects of a
community. I asked them to identify the successes and challenges in their community
related to these aspects. They did so; by moving to two flipchart stations and writing
and talking and listening about the various ideas. I then facilitated a discussion
with the entire group, asking them to say what comments and ideas stood out for
them, what they were pleased to hear and read, and what concerned them.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Next, I asked participants to think about an upcoming workshop about
community resiliency which they were all attending. I asked them to identify the
one or two key aspects from the first activity that they would “take with them”
into the workshop. What would they concentrate upon? What would they think about
during the workshop? Then, I asked them to create their answers as a freehand Wordle.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Wordle is “a toy
for generating “word clouds” from text that you provide. The clouds give
greater prominence to words that appear more frequently in the source text.</span><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">” <a href="http://www.wordle.net/"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.wordle.net/</span></a> A Wordle is a visual representation
for text data, typically used to depict the most prominent terms and ideas. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tag_cloud"><span style="color: blue;">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tag_cloud</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I asked participants to <em><strong>draw </strong></em>a Wordle, making their main idea as the
biggest word and then writing other ideas in other sizes and directions. They
had fun and also focussed on their main ideas.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The freehand Wordle allowed a different way of thinking, incorporated
visual and kinesthetic learning modes, and added fun to the discussion. It’s a <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>quick and good way to adapt technology as a facilitation
tool.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here are two pictures:
one of a Wordle related to community development and one of my freehand
community topics from the session.</span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5xhYgQKXx60eUyMLYU8aytS0MNe4ECBlqCr9qX4zaQafH2LczGj6u_Scgy947ufQVI5G0gcZsLk5S5ambk3fhiISKr-87Xc8S0dny1um1RNHWZRONNZxnlD6miz_zYWqAS_8F9jX3VIA/s1600/Wordle+community.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5xhYgQKXx60eUyMLYU8aytS0MNe4ECBlqCr9qX4zaQafH2LczGj6u_Scgy947ufQVI5G0gcZsLk5S5ambk3fhiISKr-87Xc8S0dny1um1RNHWZRONNZxnlD6miz_zYWqAS_8F9jX3VIA/s1600/Wordle+community.jpg" height="400" width="205" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Computer-generated Wordle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCMbq6L6h5P5AMhnlAj9ltpaY-yUF_TuuXEHOmWM1O74ywwaG89tYZAapfed4abU2LgZLZ63y4PV65U5vvOkoJTfK3x4KQYEYCPwmxxx6gaWBHLGssiKEUw6j9A-7QbWFhXzdAQmscTZU/s1600/Wordle+freehand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCMbq6L6h5P5AMhnlAj9ltpaY-yUF_TuuXEHOmWM1O74ywwaG89tYZAapfed4abU2LgZLZ63y4PV65U5vvOkoJTfK3x4KQYEYCPwmxxx6gaWBHLGssiKEUw6j9A-7QbWFhXzdAQmscTZU/s1600/Wordle+freehand.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freehand Wordle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-84667650854656852282014-07-30T17:25:00.000-06:002014-07-30T17:25:20.346-06:00Facilitation ... makes proposal writing easier!
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I recently completed a
proposal for a consulting and facilitation contract regarding community sustainability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately, I gain most of my work through <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">word of mouth</i> and repeat requests from
clients.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I also write proposals
in response to requests for proposals (RFP).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I always find that these take a tremendous amount of thought, energy,
and time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do not use, and cannot use,
a “cookie cutter” approach to writing proposals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I find that each one needs to be
individualized to best suit the request of the potential client.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yes, each proposal has
common sections; that is, experience and relevant work, education, references,
process approach and methodology, timeline and budget. However, as I finished
the recent proposal, I confirmed that I applied my facilitation principles and
methods to writing it. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">How do I do this? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I think
what the people in the organization who put out the RFP, need and want
(respect, understanding, start with client’s needs).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I carefully
consider what I can best give to the potential client based on my experience, expertise
and skills (start with where the client is). <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I think about
which of my previous work contracts best fit with the RFP (competency,
effectiveness). <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I think about
which people that I am honoured to use as references would be able to, and feel
comfortable, answering questions regarding the RFP (honesty, openness, transparency).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I state my
understanding of the specific project in the RFP and what I can best bring to the
process and the client (professionalism, individualized approach).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I think
about how I can best help them clarify their outcomes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I think
carefully about the core questions that they want answered through the project.
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I think about
the ways we can work collaboratively throughout the process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I think
about the design of each section of the project and suggest beneficial ways to
achieve the outcomes; not taking a standard design and fitting the project outcomes
into it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It may take longer to prepare
a proposal using an individualized and principled approach; yet I know that I am
happier, more confident, and satisfied that I have written the best proposal I can
to help the client achieve the desired outcomes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My facilitation blog
question is:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>how do you use facilitation
principles and methods when writing proposals for work?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-77743920604254200102014-07-03T12:08:00.000-06:002014-07-03T12:08:15.702-06:00Facilitate … during the lazy, hazy days of summer!
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<span lang="EN-US">Living in the four-season climate of Canada,
I really love and appreciate the hot summer weather! Life takes on a different pace;
relaxation comes more naturally. As my community of Calgary, Alberta enjoys a
temperature of +30C today, I started thinking about how my facilitation design subtly
changes during the summer. I also find that participants often suggest different
approaches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are a few ideas for facilitating
during the lazy, hazy days of summer!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">Place
and space:</span></b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
not -25C! Go outdoors for extended time. While I have taken groups on winter “walks
and talks”, they are not as long or as relaxed as a summer conversation
outdoors. Deliberately choose an outdoor venue. Hold the entire session
outside. Use picnic tables as walls and flipchart stands. Plan a picnic to hold
a discussion and decision session. Everyone gets a slice of watermelon when
they reach a decision. Leave laptops, tablets, and cellphones inside.</span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">Five
Senses:</span></b><span lang="EN-US"> Go outside and lead participants through a
Five Senses exercise about a topic.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span lang="EN-US">Listen</span></u><span lang="EN-US"> to sounds and pick one that creates optimism about the discussion topic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does hearing a birdsong make you think happy
thoughts? Why?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span lang="EN-US">Smell</span></u><span lang="EN-US"> and talk about the different aromas and how each one invites different
ideas about the topic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is there a sweet smell?
A sour smell? What positive and negative aspects about the topic do they help us
identify?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span lang="EN-US">Touch</span></u><span lang="EN-US"> nature – different leaves, trees, grasses and use them as an analogy
for actions, e.g. this grass is shaded by a tree; therefore, what shades our
thoughts and plans? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span lang="EN-US">Taste</span></u><span lang="EN-US"> berries, herbs, any other non-poisonous plants you have never tasted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make a dandelion salad. Talk about whether
you feel brave and adventurous when you taste new food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Talk about how you may need to be brave and adventurous
when making decisions and plans.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span lang="EN-US">See</span></u><span lang="EN-US"> the big wide world and the tiny elements of nature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Contrast the smallest part of nature you see
at your feet with the view stretching out to the horizon. Lift your eyes up to
the hills. Talk about both the small details and the big glorious vision related
to your topic.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">The Artist:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<span lang="EN-US">Hike to a beautiful location. Set up an
easel for each participant. Give them paint or coloured chalk or markers and encourage
them to draw the scenery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then draw how
the scenery relates to the topic under discussion. Share the paintings. Have the
group create one large painting, incorporating their different perspectives of the
scenery and the topic.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">Quick
Nature Breaks:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<span lang="EN-US">If the session requires an indoor setting,
encourage small outdoor breaks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take a 30
minute walk and talk as a group. Talk 10 minute individual walks. Have each participant
pick a flower and create a bouquet of beauty.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">Physical
Activities Outdoor:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<span lang="EN-US">Play games. Use a parachute. Hold three-legged
races. Run an obstacle course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hold a
fun Olympics. Hold sack races.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do these
as a small energizing break during the session.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US">Remember sunscreen and water!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">My facilitation blog question: How do you facilitate
during different weather seasons or patterns?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-8278128790168376442014-04-23T09:26:00.000-06:002014-04-23T09:26:54.768-06:00Facilitate … with landscapes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8Rzy1cc2WM_vuzda9kSh-nCTdvSlGoFyogZUzmQbMYadm1QpekmJwGd3WFRxZEm1hJ84-b_LrIucWyR-qX4hfkyXVOzVWNLvp7V9Jswj7rmtDIAR5URVmoiWwN4nUR55tF5fgVezwdE/s1600/Arizona+landscape+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8Rzy1cc2WM_vuzda9kSh-nCTdvSlGoFyogZUzmQbMYadm1QpekmJwGd3WFRxZEm1hJ84-b_LrIucWyR-qX4hfkyXVOzVWNLvp7V9Jswj7rmtDIAR5URVmoiWwN4nUR55tF5fgVezwdE/s1600/Arizona+landscape+sign.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Our work, our thinking, our lives, our culture and
social activities are shaped by the influences of the country in which we reside.</span></i><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"> (Forrest Shreve, researcher, author, teach at
dedication of Desert Botanical Gardens 1938 in Scottsdale Arizona) On a recent
trip to these Gardens in Scottsdale, I read these great words on a sign in the
park. I love them!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have always believed
that each person has a landscape within her or him. This landscape may be the geography
from the place of birth or from a place that one visits or from the inherent yearning
for a specific type of location. This landscape is where you naturally fit, where
you feel the most comfortable, where you feel refreshed and rejuvenated as well
as calm, where you feel at home. My landscape is the parkland terrain of
rolling hills, open fields, and clumps of trees – the countryside in which I lived
as a child. I love mountains, I love oceans; I love open prairies; yet I am naturally
drawn to the parkland of my youth. I know that while I love visiting islands, I
cannot live on them permanently because of a claustrophobic feeling. I enjoy living
in a big urban centre, yet balance this with daily walks in a wooded ravine and
weekly trips into the countryside. I need my nature landscape!<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I incorporate the idea
of landscapes into facilitation. Ask participants to identify their landscape. Take
them through a visualization exercise to help them understand the physical setting
in they feel most at home. Start with stories and images of where they grew up
and ask how they feel about those physical and natural environments. Ask them
to think about trips to different environments and how they felt about them. Use
the landscapes as an analogy for participants’ involvement with work teams,
community teams, with conflict, with personality types, with leadership, with strategic
planning, and many other topics. For example,<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 72pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The landscape
in which they are most comfortable can be the skills and situation in which
they do their best work or it can be the place that they need to travel away
from for a while to gain new perspectives.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 72pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The landscape
in which they are slightly uncomfortable (like my islands) may be the place
they need to go to in order to step outside their comfort zone and challenge themselves.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 72pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The landscape
which they fear may be the issue they need to address and they may need to take
friends along. I met a woman at a conference who was deathly afraid of
nature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had only lived in large
cities and could not comprehend how anyone felt comfortable without buildings around
them. She challenged herself to start taking short walks with a friend in an
urban park to overcome the fear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
talked about how she could use the same approach to work situations.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sometimes, I use the
landscape analogy as an introductory activity; sometimes as the foundation throughout
a discussion; sometimes as a fun energizer.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My facilitation blog questions
are: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is your preferred
landscape?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How could you use the landscape
analogy in your facilitation work?<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-73891494175688986812014-02-23T11:08:00.001-07:002014-02-23T11:08:49.323-07:00Facilitate … with inspiration from the Girls!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" unselectable="on"></a><br /></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" unselectable="on"></a><br /></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After the 2014
Olympics women’s hockey gold medal game (won by Canada – Yeah!), a cute cartoon
surfaced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A hockey coach is telling the
Canadian men’s hockey team “to play like girls”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I laughed and then I thought
of the message that this cartoon sends about gender and sport stereotypes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then I thought about the messages for
facilitation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" unselectable="on"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" unselectable="on"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" unselectable="on"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" unselectable="on"></a><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie0meqR1EqKpwY111EqwDs1IcGW1jmDyOcW5t270T2O90ag2pJot-HF7qnb5aZ_TjUjSBxC4jdDUrsGfEOBYM2ZBH_KIV5HVinmXeaqHkucGYF2Wo94UtXPdlE3nA8-tyE6fW93Pj_QYY/s1600/Play+like+Girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie0meqR1EqKpwY111EqwDs1IcGW1jmDyOcW5t270T2O90ag2pJot-HF7qnb5aZ_TjUjSBxC4jdDUrsGfEOBYM2ZBH_KIV5HVinmXeaqHkucGYF2Wo94UtXPdlE3nA8-tyE6fW93Pj_QYY/s1600/Play+like+Girls.jpg" height="254" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Canadian women’s hockey
team were down 2-0 with less than four minutes left in the game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It looked all over but then, the Canadian
team scored two goals and then won in overtime.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What perseverance!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What belief in
each other, in their team and in never giving up!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" unselectable="on"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" unselectable="on"></a><a href="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BhAqz1mCUAAdy_7.jpg"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BhAqz1mCUAAdy_7.jpg</span></a><o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"></span></i></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">How can this perseverance apply to facilitation?</span></i><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think
of the groups of people who cope with difficult, challenging, and at times, threatening,
discussions about contentious topics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Often, people will want to give up; to believe that failure is
inevitable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we, as facilitators,
work with people who have reached this stage, we need to “play like girls” and
persevere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need to believe and need
to help the participants believe that success is possible; that the
conversation can continue; and that understanding and agreement can be
achieved.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">To help with these
difficult discussions, I often refer to Sam Kaner’s “Facilitator’s Gide to
Participatory Decision-Making” book, (</span><a href="http://www.communityatwork.com/index.html"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.communityatwork.com/index.html</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">)
and particularly, the Dynamics of Group Decision-Making model.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I explain the Divergent Zone, the Groan Zone,
and the Convergent Zone to participants to let them know that it is possible to
continue through the disagreements, to “groan”, and then to come together with mutual
understanding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now,
I will use the Canadian women’s gold medal win to show how perseverance works –
in hockey, in facilitation, and in conversations.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My facilitation question
is:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What lessons did you take from the 2014
Olympics to help with your facilitation skills?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-23839001955338205922014-02-04T12:30:00.000-07:002014-02-04T12:30:17.241-07:00Facilitate ... with an Olympic focus!
<span style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Where have
all the athletes gone? (with respect to Pete Seeger).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seems like it was yesterday when I was
cheering loudly, proudly, and patriotically for Canadian athletes at the 2010
Olympics in Vancouver.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here we are again
– four years later!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cheering Canadian
and world athletes as they display their amazing physical and mental prowess at
the 2014 Olympics in Sochi.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Four years
ago, I wrote a bog about using Olympic medals as symbols of success in
organizations, communities, and individuals. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here it is again with a few additional
discussion activities using an Olympic theme.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Have fun with it and use the Olympics experience to enhance
participants’ discussions.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">ü<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Medals of Success:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I bought
Hershey chocolate candies wrapped in gold, silver, and bronze shiny paper. At
various sessions, workshops, and meetings, I spread the candies on the table
and told participants that they were gold, silver, and bronze medals. I asked
participants to select a candy and describe the success it represented in their
community, group, initiative or organization. What fun and focus! People responded
extremely well because most of us are interested in the Olympics. The success
focus came through quickly and profoundly. Participants would laugh and then
seriously think about successes. We had many gold medals yet also silver and
bronze as participants explained what efforts they still wanted to do to
enhance a success.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">ü<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bobsleigh Teamwork:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In pairs or foursomes,
have participants use a bobsleigh analogy to develop teamwork.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To solve a problem facing the group, ask the bobsleigh
teams to act out racing down the track.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use
chairs as the sleigh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who will
steer?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who will brake?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who will push off?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do all team members contribute for the
fastest and safest result?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After the fun
of the race, ask the teams to apply the race experience to the problem.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">ü<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Olympic Energizers:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lots of
Olympic ideas to encourage participants to move, to stretch, to refresh!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lead them through exercises simulating
skiing, bobsleigh, skeleton, curling (hurry hard!), ice hockey, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sit in chairs or stand and make the
moves!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pair up and have a goalie and a
hockey player shooting at them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Laughter
will be the score!!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">ü<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Imagine the Olympic Experience to face Challenges:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ask participants that may be facing a
challenge or tough time in their organizations to talk about what they think Olympic
athletes experience as they go to a new country, new facilities, new accommodations,
and new food and carry extremely high expectations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, ask participants to develop the ways
that they think the atheists prepare and cope with these changes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Invite participants to apply their ideas
about the athletes to their organizational challenges.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ride the
Olympic bandwagon (or bobsleigh) and use as a theme in your facilitation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My facilitation
question is:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How could you or have you
used the Olympics to inspire your facilitation approaches?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-68108785397097668162013-11-19T13:27:00.001-07:002013-11-19T13:27:23.776-07:00Facilitate … by talking to yourself.
<span lang="EN-US">Talk to yourself! It might be the best
conversation you ever had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Talking to
yourself takes on a whole new dimension when facilitating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How many internal conversations do you have going
on within your head when you are facilitating? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have learned to value these conversations
and intentionally listen to them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I
start to feel the buzz in my brain that may indicate a variety of emotions: anxiety,
excitement, nervousness, passion – I now pause and think about what is going
on.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span><span lang="EN-US">I use two excellent sources for this self-reflection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I learned the Focussed Conversation Method
from the Institute of Cultural Affairs Canada (<a href="http://ica-associates.ca/"><span style="color: blue;">http://ica-associates.ca/</span></a>).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This method, called an ORID, guides an individual
or a group through a flow of Objective, Reflective, Interpretive, and Decisional
perspectives. When I am facilitating with a group and feel that something is happening
that needs to be examined, I initially use an ORID in my head to assess the
situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ask myself:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>O - What do I hear and see? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>R - How do I feel about it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I - What do I think the group participants
are feeling and thinking?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>D – Do I need
to share my observations with the group?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">The second source is the Mutual Learning Cycle
from <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Skilled Facilitator</i> by Roger
Schwarz (<a href="http://www.schwarzassociates.com/"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.schwarzassociates.com/</span></a>).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With this method, I talk to myself by Observing
– What do I see and hear?, then Making Meaning of what I think it means, and then
Choosing whether it is worthwhile to say something to the group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Knowing and using both of these methods helps
me stay calm when facilitating; which in turn, hopefully, helps the group
achieve better discussions and decisions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-48332369541936149892013-08-19T10:25:00.000-06:002013-08-19T10:25:16.643-06:00Facilitate … with a new perspective from a vegetarian
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“Put meat on the bones”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While
facilitating a workshop, I used this old saying as a metaphor to describe the
point in the discussion that we had reached.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We had decided about an important outcome and strategy, and our next
step was to determine the details.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Put
meat on the bones” is a metaphor for adding</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">
substance or detail to an idea; to fill out a plan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The saying likens the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">idea</i> to a skeleton or bones and the need to add the meat or flesh
on the skeleton by <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">adding the details</i>.</span><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At the next break in the workshop, a participant told me privately that
she was a vegetarian and was offended by the saying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She felt it implied that meat was important
and necessary; a belief she did not share.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I thanked her for her courage and willingness to share her opinion with
me and then asked her to help me think of a different metaphor that would
convey a similar powerful image and, to the best of our knowledge, not offend
anyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We both struggled with a comparative
image and finally settled on several possibilities:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Add the finishing touches <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Put the drywall on the house frame<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Accessorize an outfit<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I learned that I need to re-think the casual use of sayings in
workshops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, the reaction of the
vegetarian might be a case of political correctness or over-sensitivity; yet, I
am glad for the wake-up call to remember to carefully choose my words.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span>M<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">y facilitation blog questions are:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What sayings, metaphors, and analogies do you regularly use?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How might they perceived by someone else?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-75659616622168306002013-07-30T09:39:00.000-06:002013-07-30T09:39:28.321-06:00Facilitate with … Your Whole Body
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As part of an Art of Hosting Conversations gathering (http://www.artofhosting.org/),
I facilitated an activity to allow each participant to share backgrounds,
skills, experiences, interests, and passions. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a former 4-H member and leader (</span><a href="http://www.4h.ab.ca/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.4h.ab.ca/</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">), I built upon the four H’s
in the 4-H Pledge (head, heart, health, and hands) and created an activity for
sharing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each person drew an outline of her
body on a flipchart page.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the following
body parts, they drew pictures and wrote words to depict:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-themecolor: text1;">Head</span></b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-themecolor: text1;"> – intellect and
knowledge (What is your training, education?)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-themecolor: text1;">Heart</span></b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-themecolor: text1;"> – emotion,
passion (What you love doing the best? What lights your fire? What you like
doing?)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-themecolor: text1;">Core body</span></b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-themecolor: text1;"> –
foundation (What do you believe you are best at?)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-themecolor: text1;">Hands</span></b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-themecolor: text1;"> – experience
(What have you done/do? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are your core
areas of work and service? What are examples of your work?)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-themecolor: text1;">Legs and feet</span></b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-themecolor: text1;"> – movement
and action (What do you want to do? What do you want to walk into?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here is the Activity Template and a few examples.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Have fun using your whole body to share
information and learn about others!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQHYHU806KzX4jOawsbp0vZO4vMLIhBduXvzMr0KIF7snPgqSF2UDaOh78jpueYPV2wbIcjPpKfswI5SNiW2SYukGmC7FFGlCiN4ULCFk0_g6tRo37qDAkqtD_nfujJgboP93S-fMBEmc/s1600/Head+Heart+Hands+format.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQHYHU806KzX4jOawsbp0vZO4vMLIhBduXvzMr0KIF7snPgqSF2UDaOh78jpueYPV2wbIcjPpKfswI5SNiW2SYukGmC7FFGlCiN4ULCFk0_g6tRo37qDAkqtD_nfujJgboP93S-fMBEmc/s320/Head+Heart+Hands+format.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Activity Template</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCPp4BizO_vEmOPmKSTrK0oPXqXqO4mY1JL6eqMqYHi0TOuzDesU-nHIC_CjDxcbxFtQK9GSbJdsKEn3q2Qcx18qlW70ntI0x5xWUTh2MDRyvsFqFavDLH7tw71vMENDOSuPdBA4sv-U/s1600/Head+Heart+Hands+image+3+-+Crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCPp4BizO_vEmOPmKSTrK0oPXqXqO4mY1JL6eqMqYHi0TOuzDesU-nHIC_CjDxcbxFtQK9GSbJdsKEn3q2Qcx18qlW70ntI0x5xWUTh2MDRyvsFqFavDLH7tw71vMENDOSuPdBA4sv-U/s320/Head+Heart+Hands+image+3+-+Crop.jpg" width="252" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Participant's Example 1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2pD9Lr3XuzldwI_GniaVZPc-5GwUxy5jI4FhOLKy0_vPAt5JTGy-wpqufwy_1MYC83bhR9UFMHz_x8iZxRpEWemyU_IkfNNKOcnc5npfbyxiS59DNqFeigKk08Ym0OU6kIgrxy1Cg0w/s1600/Head+Heart+Hands+image+1+-+Crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2pD9Lr3XuzldwI_GniaVZPc-5GwUxy5jI4FhOLKy0_vPAt5JTGy-wpqufwy_1MYC83bhR9UFMHz_x8iZxRpEWemyU_IkfNNKOcnc5npfbyxiS59DNqFeigKk08Ym0OU6kIgrxy1Cg0w/s320/Head+Heart+Hands+image+1+-+Crop.jpg" width="309" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Participant's Example 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-24422668410783686772013-05-05T11:20:00.000-06:002013-05-05T11:20:13.814-06:00Facilitate … with tweets!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tweet the message!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Recently, in several facilitated sessions, when participants work in small groups and report back to the entire group, I have asked them to summarize the key message from their discussion in a tweet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The tweet is either written on a flipchart on in a laptop to project. My only rule is to keep the tweet to 140 characters.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The summary tweet is met with great enthusiasm!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Participants respond much more positively than when they are asked to write a summary statement about their discussion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a twist that is fun and motivational and even a bit challenging as some people know nothing about Twitter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I usually hear participants say, “What fun!” or “How do we do this?” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the participants that are apprehensive, I find that other group members help them to get into the spirit of the tweet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Age makes no difference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I heard a 16 year old girl say she had never tweeted and I have had an 80 year old woman immediately write a tweet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have used the summary tweets in Open Space Technology, World Café, Technology of Participation and Appreciative Inquiry processes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here are tweets from a recent community development session Connecting Silos: It Takes a Region. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><a href="http://www.kiboodle.ca/connectingsilos/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.kiboodle.ca/connectingsilos/</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Folks like ourselves need to take a second look at people in community to tap unused resources.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ask how you can make a difference as an agent of change. #community<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Training is necessary for community leaders to move us forward.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And, here’s a few from students at a high school Leadership workshop to foster a welcoming and inclusive community.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></i><br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Creating opportunities for new people to feel welcome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>#committee #survey #clubs<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Incorporating all ages from teens to seniors #welcoming #friendly #students #respect #participate #volunteer<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tweet the message!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a way of encouraging people to think differently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My facilitation blog question is:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How have you, or could you use tweets when you facilitate?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-17586849325705966222013-02-07T12:50:00.001-07:002013-02-07T12:50:50.610-07:00Facilitate … to achieve simplicity
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">While perusing the Internet recently, I found a wonderful
quote by Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., an American jurist.</span><br />
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“I would not give a
fig for the simplicity this side of complexity, but I would give my life
for the simplicity on the other side of complexity. “<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This quote may sound complex; yet, is really simple!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And profound.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I think this quote applies significantly to facilitation. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I help people in organizations recognize that
they often need to discuss and decide about very complex issues and situations
in order to achieve simplicity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It does
not help to try for a simple and “quick and dirty” solution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rather, people need to dedicate the time to
know as many facts as possible about a situation, consider all of the
alternative actions and their consequences, and make decisions that will have
impact for a long time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once these decisions
are reached and implemented, the group often is able to carry out its
activities in a simple manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The group
has achieved simplicity “on the other side of complexity”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As an example, some years ago, I worked with seven organizations
wishing to create a formal partnership.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
our first session, the participants reviewed a document that provided an
analysis of each organization; outlining strengths, liabilities, and interest
in working together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many of the
participants said that they knew everything about the organizations and did not
need to waste time on reviewing the document.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I asked them to commit to two hours to discuss the document and then
decide upon further review.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once the two
hours were over, the participants acknowledged that they knew little about each
other and were trying to simplify and hurry a process that was complex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We then designed and conducted a four month
process that culminated in a collaboration model for the organizations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As facilitator, I simplify whenever possible; yet recognize
when complexity requires more time and attention in order to achieve simplicity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My facilitation question is:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>what examples do you have about complexity and simplicity?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-90401276227478935272013-01-22T12:39:00.000-07:002013-01-22T12:39:52.954-07:00A facilitator comes full circle with food and fellowship.
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Years ago, at the start of my work in community development,
I was a Recreation Director in a rural Alberta community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To introduce myself to the residents, I
joined in as many community events as I could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>One afternoon, I went out to a small hamlet to attend a ladies’ social
gathering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Admittedly nervous, I was
quickly put at ease by the warm welcome from the women.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We sat around a kitchen table in a mobile
home, enjoying coffee, tea, and cake, and chatting about the recreation and
social needs of their families.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, at
the end of the visit, I won the door prize, which as the newcomer in the group,
I really didn’t think I deserved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
don’t remember what the door prize was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I do remember the kindness and the willingness of the women to accept me
into their group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I went back for many
visits and work projects. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Fast forward (and the years have flown by!) to last
week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I sat with a group of interesting,
passionate, and funny women; all dedicated to improving their community. We
gathered in one of the women’s lovely home; drinking coffee, tea and water and
eating the most yummy fruit crepes and banana bread.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like the conversation at the gathering many
years earlier, we laughed, vented, discussed passionately, and made plans to
make their community a more welcoming and inclusive place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And yes, as I left, I was given a parting
gift.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t a door prize yet was a
gesture of generosity and camaraderie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Some things are different between the two community meetings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fashions have certainly changed, food choices
are healthier, and we were not texting or emailing over three decades ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I doubt that I owned a cell phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, so much more is the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Food, fellowship, fun, fervor, and a focus on
being part of a wonderful community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
look at the years I have been involved in community development and appreciate
again the power of food and fellowship. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-8726998480003605772012-12-17T22:09:00.000-07:002012-12-17T22:09:38.281-07:00Facilitate … with balance ... especially at Christmas!
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As I work at my computer eight days before Christmas,
writing a report for a December 31 deadline, my thoughts wander to
work/family/play balance. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How am I doing
with this balance? I know my family is my #1 biggest and best priority and I
will drop work to play with and to help them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Usually, my work is play (except for bookkeeping!) and I keep a good
balance between work and play.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although,
this does slip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Three Christmases ago, I
took 1½ days off to celebrate and then was back to the office.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>NOT doing that again!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As I ponder about balances in life, I realize that I have
another teeter-totter that I frequently ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is the balance between “live” facilitation and “behind the scenes” preparation
and report writing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I often go through
stretches of work where I am facilitating on-site or virtually with a
group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, I will go through stretches
where I am designing sessions, researching information, and writing
reports.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I find that after weeks of live
facilitation, I long for the quiet, and reflection and introspection time that work
in my office gives me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, after
several weeks of report writing, I am eager to be back with a group, working
together, talking, laughing and achieving success.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I know that I am very fortunate to ride this facilitation teeter-totter!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As long as the stretches on each end aren’t
too long!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My facilitation blog questions are:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are you balancing in your life and work?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do you deal with actual facilitation and
behind the scenes preparation and writing work?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fky57aR3A0LCFSg6Ts5yF5KbevtklDUsMLytw3h6B-JRLRHSO8ycT9SP-5VhcLCdYvtEUmBPAEhwZJdhZpBVwUxpv0Niw8z2q0J8KigLzm0yAy0tLqkvPAtI9vfY6QPy9QIXTyUoJeI/s1600/teeter+totter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fky57aR3A0LCFSg6Ts5yF5KbevtklDUsMLytw3h6B-JRLRHSO8ycT9SP-5VhcLCdYvtEUmBPAEhwZJdhZpBVwUxpv0Niw8z2q0J8KigLzm0yAy0tLqkvPAtI9vfY6QPy9QIXTyUoJeI/s320/teeter+totter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-11775871867915996932012-10-02T21:13:00.000-06:002012-10-02T21:13:37.468-06:00Facilitate ... with graphic recording<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU6juIYAdsfxMpWAjRPZtfd876Y9hnFV1nKPFSB9t77_Hk0Kv4a5mBnCn0SW63Psc5HZU-WJTCPixcPnL2SbSm10zQa_WLkI5Ec937VBYNWgxiR3TV-KMhL6bnwl_2S-IyXKaO6AkimxE/s1600/graphic+image+two+star+people.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU6juIYAdsfxMpWAjRPZtfd876Y9hnFV1nKPFSB9t77_Hk0Kv4a5mBnCn0SW63Psc5HZU-WJTCPixcPnL2SbSm10zQa_WLkI5Ec937VBYNWgxiR3TV-KMhL6bnwl_2S-IyXKaO6AkimxE/s320/graphic+image+two+star+people.jpg" width="320" /></a><v:shape alt="Description: E:\Pictures Barb\Work\graphic image two star people.jpg" id="Picture_x0020_4" o:spid="_x0000_s1028" style="height: 89.6pt; margin-left: 7.75pt; margin-top: 13.55pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: page; mso-position-horizontal-relative: text; mso-position-horizontal: absolute; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: page; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 152.5pt; z-index: 251659264;" type="#_x0000_t75"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
<v:imagedata o:title="graphic image two star people" src="file:///C:\Users\barb\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image001.jpg">
<w:wrap type="square">
</w:wrap></v:imagedata></span></v:shape><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I can draw!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> S</span>tick
people, star people, banners, scrolls, arrows, mountain tops!</span></span><span style="background: black; border: 1pt black; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 0pt; layout-grid-mode: line; mso-ansi-language: X-NONE; mso-bidi-language: X-NONE; mso-border-alt: none black 0cm; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: X-NONE; mso-font-width: 0%; padding: 0cm;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Last week, </span>I participated in a 1½ day Graphic Recording
workshop hosted by Conscious Brands (</span><a href="http://www.consciousbrands.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.consciousbrands.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">) and instructed
by Kara Stonehouse with AHA! Graphic Facilitation (http://blog.ahagraphic.com).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While I learned that I am not able to draw a picture
of a verbal comment quickly enough to record all conversations in “real-time”, I
did learn that I can enhance my recording style tremendously by using graphic
recording.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have always used images, graphics, and pictures in my facilitation
sessions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I involve participants in drawing
pictures and selecting images to convey ideas; I draw rough images to depict a
concept such as mountain tops for reaching goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, from the “I Can Draw – Live! Workshop”,
I gained new skills and increased my confidence to incorporate more graphic
recording.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Graphic recording “involves capturing people's ideas and
expressions—in words, images and color—as they are being spoken in the moment.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Source:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The World Café </span><a href="http://www.theworldcafe.com/graphics.html"><span style="color: windowtext;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">http://www.theworldcafe.com/graphics.html</span></span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A graphic recorder draws images and symbols, employs
different fonts and colours, and uses a variety of drawing tools to visually
record notes during a discussion, a presentation, or conversation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In the workshop, Instructor Kara professionally and playfully led us through
visually recording activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We started
by drawing star people and progressed to the final challenge: graphically
recording an eight minute speech.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kara’s
message was that we can draw – live!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here are several of my graphic recordings .<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDg978L28YX79qNldYrKNmVKoipFXI_U7yeNHkasJpH_9VUjgnVHDE4GOU7AnRKNdyqxykmkvR5pNVl_lxiepzGbCDQBnDS7iupwiripncWd7HIzlV7ekCRa5cyBfxE6k1l7P6YdSSf4/s1600/graphics+poster+blossom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDg978L28YX79qNldYrKNmVKoipFXI_U7yeNHkasJpH_9VUjgnVHDE4GOU7AnRKNdyqxykmkvR5pNVl_lxiepzGbCDQBnDS7iupwiripncWd7HIzlV7ekCRa5cyBfxE6k1l7P6YdSSf4/s320/graphics+poster+blossom.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfEOcmsTCjfpmRqx8YPd6GtEEIrigcFFvMOoZI7-sF_gGMk9RzCDhyphenhyphen8SvKzCuasc3Piv_23OqSvJXyONHXkcX3LfP8ZWPYi8W5bRk32slWK5IL4-BzBTbk7nMGHsVEJ1UkI9ZtOdjGZM/s1600/graphic+image+metaphor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfEOcmsTCjfpmRqx8YPd6GtEEIrigcFFvMOoZI7-sF_gGMk9RzCDhyphenhyphen8SvKzCuasc3Piv_23OqSvJXyONHXkcX3LfP8ZWPYi8W5bRk32slWK5IL4-BzBTbk7nMGHsVEJ1UkI9ZtOdjGZM/s320/graphic+image+metaphor.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I love the way that visual images heighten awareness of a conversation;
give a different perspective to written and spoken words; records a
conversation; and conveys fun and flair! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will select, practice drawing, and regularly
use 10 to 20 images such as:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Group of people for teams, families, community<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mountain tops for visions and goals<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bulls-eye for goals<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Arrows for direction<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pathways for travelling<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I will use graphic recording when it fits the purpose of the
facilitated session and enhances the record of information for the group.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My facilitation blog questions:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Which of my images do you like?!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How do you use or could use graphic recording?<o:p></o:p></span></span>Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-76950623831698761812012-09-17T15:38:00.001-06:002012-09-17T15:40:19.473-06:00Facilitate … with inquiry as illustrated by a Grade 8 ClassMy son is a Social and History teacher working with Grades 8 to 12. One of his colleagues blogged about a story he shared with her about a Grade 8 Social class. This story and blog are wonderful examples of one of my fundamental facilitation principles; ask questions, don’t tell.<br />
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The blog is at: <a href="http://www.cea-ace.ca/blog/brooke-moore/2012/09/4/embedded-inquiry">http://www.cea-ace.ca/blog/brooke-moore/2012/09/4/embedded-inquiry</a><br />
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The blogger, Brooke Moore, says that:<br />
• Inquiry means to ask questions and investigate those questions. <br />
• Learning happens when students ask questions that they care about answering.<br />
• Engagement means thinking or connecting to the learning… questioning is active and requires thinking.<br />
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The story that Brooke shared about my son’s Grade 8 class was:<br />
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All of this good stuff happened in Chris’ Social Studies 8 class today. When Chris stood up in front of his fresh-faced grade 8s he was all ready to tell them the definition of civilization - but then he didn’t. On an impulse, Chris pushed aside his carefully planned lesson and, instead of a definition wrote, “What is a civilization?” on the board.<br />
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“I just suddenly decided what I wanted the year to be about and telling them the answer would have been boring,” he told me. By the end of class the learners had revised and rethought their words until they had composed the following definitions. “We’ll use these throughout the year – revisiting them as their understanding develops.”</div>
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This excellent example of asking rather than telling illustrates how individuals learn and retain learning. I am sure that the Grade 8 students will remember and understand what civilization is because they developed their own answers. When facilitating, I ask open-ended questions as much as possible. Participants learn and understand so much more because they think about the answers, discuss them with others, generate options, and reach decisions – themselves. They are not told the answers.<br />
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My greatest strength as a consultant is to be ignorant and ask a few questions.<br />
Peter Drucker, Management Consultant</div>
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I never learn anything talking. I only learn things when I ask questions.<br />
Lou Holtz, Coach</div>
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Many facilitation approaches use questions as a foundational basis. Here are a few resources. The Word Café <a href="http://www.theworldcafe.com/">http://www.theworldcafe.com/</a>, The Art of Hosting Conversations <a href="http://www.artofhosting.org/home/">http://www.artofhosting.org/home/</a>, and Appreciative Inquiry <a href="http://centerforappreciativeinquiry.net/">http://centerforappreciativeinquiry.net/</a>. <br />
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My congratulations to my son and his colleague for using questions to encourage learning. <br />
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My facilitation blog questions are: How do you use inquiry in facilitation? How do you use questions effectively? Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-68775281164831187932012-08-23T09:59:00.000-06:002012-08-23T09:59:52.398-06:00Facilitate physically… with inspiration from the Olympics!<br />
A Usain Bolt lightning pose! A javelin throw! A triathlon swim, bike and run! I was inspired by these Olympic moments and sports and created physical activities for two webinars I facilitated this week. <br />
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When facilitating, I like to build upon events in the world that most participants in my sessions will know about. The Olympics just finished and everybody knows something about them; whether they watched or not. <br />
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Here’s three fun and productive activities I used:<br />
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The Triathlon: sitting in our chairs, we swam, we pedalled bikes and then standing up, we ran on the spot. Then, I asked the participants to relax and take a recovery moment like athletes do after physical exertion. During the recovery time, I asked each person to think about one thing from the session that stood out for her. On the webinar, each person typed this aspect into the Chat area. In a face-to-face session, each participant could turn to someone else and share the aspect.<br />
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The Usain Bolt lightning pose: We stood up (or if more comfortable, remained seated) and struck the famous Bolt lightning pose. I was using my web camera during the webinar and participants could see me demonstrate the pose. I also encouraged them to google Usain Bolt to see pictures of him doing his pose. I asked participants to hold the pose and think about one thing from the session that they would use in their work or volunteer life. Then, each person shared it. In a face-to-face session, each person could turn to someone sitting at a different table and talk about the thing they would use.<br />
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The javelin throw: I invited participants to stand up and hurl a javelin. I used an analogy for envisioning the future; throw the javelin towards what you wish to create in the future.<br />
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These physical activities inspired by memorable events let participants stretch and move, enabled kinesthetic learning, encourage reflective thinking, and provided good old fun!Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-24338814857302522632012-07-31T11:47:00.000-06:002012-07-31T11:47:23.839-06:00Facilitate … Huh?I see the blank look come into people’s eyes when I try to explain what I do as a facilitator. Their reactions are funny and frustrating! Over the years, I have tried to explain what facilitation is; have pondered what facilitation is; and laughed and snarled at the strange definitions given to facilitation. In fact, my family still struggles to describe my work!<br />
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Here are some of the various weird and wonderful definitions I have heard or read:<br />
<ul>
<li>Facilitating is like teaching kindergarten – trying to get all the noise and running going in the same direction.</li>
<li>Facilitation is helping a group nail the jelly to the wall!</li>
</ul>
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The strangest definition I had heard was during an appointment with a new dentist many years ago. He asked what I did for work and I replied that I was a facilitator. He got a funny look on his face and asked me to tell him more. After I explained my work, he laughed and shared this story. One of his clients told him that she was a professional escort; however, since that profession is illegal, she always reported on her annual income tax statement that she was a facilitator! Not quite the work that I do!<br />
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I have developed an elevator speech to explain facilitation which goes something like this:<br />
<ul>
<li>I help people in groups to effectively talk about important topics, to reach beneficial decisions and to work together more effectively. </li>
</ul>
However, I have discovered that the best way to describe facilitation to others is to give them examples of discussions and conversations I have facilitated and hosted. Then, I ask them about group discussions in which they participate at work, in community, as a volunteer. Often, the conversation turns to situations in which they could have used a facilitator. Their personal experiences help them understand what I do.<br />
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Here are a few definitions of facilitation that I like. </div>
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<ul>
<li>Facilitation’s is generally considered to be a process in which a neutral person helps a group work together more effectively. </li>
<li>A facilitator's job is to support everyone to do their best thinking and practice. (Kaner, S. with Lind, L., Toldi, C., Fisk, S. and Berger, D. Facilitator's Guide to Participatory Decision-Making, (2007) Jossey-Bass)</li>
<li>At heart, facilitation is about the process of helping people to explore, learn and change. (Smith, Mark K. (2001; 2009) 'Facilitating learning and change in groups', <a href="http://www.infed.org/biblio/b-facil.htm">www.infed.org/biblio/b-facil.htm</a>)</li>
<li>The facilitator’s main task is to help the group increase effectiveness by improving its process and structure. (Schwarz, Roger M. (2002) The Skilled Facilitator: A Comprehensive Resource for Consultants, Facilitators, Managers, Trainers and Coaches. 2e. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.)</li>
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My facilitation blog questions are: How do you define facilitation? What is the funniest or strangest definition you have heard?<br />Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-3853346210775675102012-07-06T15:58:00.000-06:002012-07-06T15:58:02.009-06:00A facilitator ... says thanks to ACE!For the past month, I have been searching for the words to express my appreciation to my amazing friends and colleagues with the Active Creative Engaged Communities (ACE). ACE Communities is an initiative of Alberta Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA) that over the past five years used a community building approach to strengthen leadership in rural Alberta communities. Talented and passionate leaders in 34 communities were involved with ACE Communities, working to enhance the quality of life in their community through recreation, parks, arts, culture and heritage. Check out ACE Communities at <a href="http://acecommunities.arpaonline.ca/">http://acecommunities.arpaonline.ca/</a><br />
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One part of ACE Communities has come to an “official” end; although, I think that the saying “It is the end of the beginning” really applies here! ACE’s legacy continues through the leaders and initiatives in communities throughout Alberta. I gained so much personally and professionally from ACE. Therefore, I want to pause and say thanks to the very special people I have met through the ACE experience. I made new friends and deepened existing friendships. You are my mentors, my inspiration, and my go-to people when I need ideas, innovation, creativity and feedback. So, a special SHOUT OUT to these fantastic people! <br />
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To Brenda Herchmer – thanks for being a living, walking, talking, believing role model showing how one person’s passionate belief in community can make a difference! Your passion and commitment led you across Canada, and Alberta is richer with you being here. Thanks for inviting me to share in an incredible journey. And I gained a “sista”!<br />
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To Carol Petersen – You help so many people to understand and appreciate that leisure is an essential part of every life, every family, and every community. You help Albertans become “more active, more often”. Thanks for dreaming big, inviting me to be part of making the dream a reality through ACE, and connecting me with fabulous people. I rediscovered a “sista”!<br />
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To Rose Carmichael – Who knew imagination and organization can go so well together in one person! Your ability to create a “silk purse out of a sow’s ear” is evident in everything you do. Thanks for reminding me to breathe and that anything can be solved calmly. <br />
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To Karen Driedger – you show me all the time that life is about meaning, movement, enthusiasm and fun! My facilitation and my life are significantly better from working and playing with you. You constantly turn things on their heads and shake our thinking. And you make us smile! Here’s to many more Mustang road trips together!<br />
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To Janet Naclia – thanks for blowing the stereotype of the artistic temperament out of the ballpark (or football field). You combine your cultural and creative side with amazing logic and organizational ability (and athletic prowess). You find the best side of everything; bringing a can-do attitude to all you do. Thanks for being so consistently cheerful.<br />
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To the rest of my ACE colleagues – From you I learned and re-learned that community development IS always about the people in the community (thanks Susan Roberts), that a quiet and gentle leadership style is incredibly effective (thanks Angie Dedrick), that appreciation to others brightens a day and is fundamental for community building (thanks Cathi Groves for the cards), that community building occurs when a person follows her heart, steps up to the plate, and does what is needed (thanks Carol Ohler), that meditation and yoga are great to incorporate into facilitation (thanks Susan Simo), that seeking to understand is a leadership strength (thanks Wanda Hogg), that letting events and conversations flow naturally is a fabulous attitude and approach (thanks Letty McFall), that evaluation is a fascinating and people-focussed undertaking (thanks Tammy Horne), that attentive listening and thoughtful planning are core facilitation skills (thanks Barb and Lindsay Stroh), that kindness and generosity are essential behaviours in facilitation and in life (thanks Carolyn Mead), that a great sense of humour makes work so much fun and that technology is my friend (thanks Byron Walker), that striving to learn and improve is so important (thanks Heather O’Hearn), that a youthful perspective adds wisdom (thanks Cameron Sault), that thinking far ahead is challenging yet rewarding (Dianne Clark), that pitching in to help makes such a difference (thanks Lois Byers), and that the Art of Hosting philosophy and approaches aligns with my facilitation beliefs and style (thanks Beth Sanders). <br />
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To the leaders in the ACE communities – my utmost admiration and awe! Every community I visited was the best! Every person I met is a champion of his/her community. You completely reaffirmed my belief that individuals make strong communities and strong communities are the foundation of strong families and businesses.<br />
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In my professional capacity with ACE, I facilitated many leadership training retreats and community engagement sessions, researched community engagement approaches from around the world, and coached community leaders. All of these experiences enhanced my skills as a facilitator and trainer and deepened my beliefs about community and the power of people.<br />Thanks ACE!<br />Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-10703901389386197922012-03-26T09:26:00.001-06:002012-03-26T09:27:16.038-06:00Facilitate … like a musical arrangement!<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tempo, tone, dissonance, consonance – how do they connect
with facilitation?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Several weeks ago, I
had the intense pleasure of listening to a musical therapist, Jennifer Buchanan
(</span><a href="http://www.jbmusictherapy.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.jbmusictherapy.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">) who
provided a combined entertainment/education session at a retreat I was
facilitating. What a hit! What a moving experience!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jennifer shared her songs, her passion for
music, and the ways that she uses music to improve people’s health and
wellness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We sang along with old favourites,
we laughed at her stories about going through her 14 year-old teenage phase,
and we wept at moving stories about people who gained hope through music.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As I listened to Jennifer, I thought about the connections
of music and facilitation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jennifer
explained concepts in music like tempo and tone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tempo is defined as “the speed at which a
musical composition or passage is performed.” I think that a group of
individuals in a facilitated conversation has tempo. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each person has a different pace or speed. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some take time to reflect upon questions,
issues and ideas; others shout out their thoughts immediately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like a musical arrangement, each person’s
tempo is needed for a full bouquet of sound.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tone in music, is “a sound with a distinctive quality” or in
a conversation, “the way somebody says something as an indicator of what that
person is feeling or thinking.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a
facilitator, I try to encourage each person in a group conversation to
contribute their tones to reflect what they are feeling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They might be happy, anxious, confused,
angry, excited, passionate, joyful … all tones are needed to create the full
facilitation arrangement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, we try
for harmony; yet often, the most beneficial result comes through the dissonance
in the conversation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In a musical arrangement,
dissonance is “ a combination of notes that, when played simultaneously, sounds
displeasing and needs to be resolved to a consonance, that is, a combination of
musical notes that sound pleasing when played simultaneously.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In conversations, we as facilitators and participants can
encourage the dissonant notes to ensure that all of the information and ideas
are included.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, we can work towards
considering and arranging the notes, or information and ideas, into a wonderful
arrangement.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br /><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My bog facilitation question is… What “musical” experiences
have you had as a facilitator that moved from dissonance to consonance? <o:p></o:p></span>Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-23925991386830049602012-01-31T22:44:00.000-07:002012-01-31T22:44:55.408-07:00Facilitate … around the bends in the road!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Change!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Flexibility!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Uncertainty!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are often common experiences in
facilitation processes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I and a
colleague are in the midst of an exciting and challenging process
with a large organization.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over the past three months, the process was
taken many unexpected twists and turns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I feel like I am driving a snazzy sports car on a straight road and then
suddenly climbing into the mountains on hairpin curves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The changes are legitimate:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>new information coming to light, clearer articulation by the client of
the desired results, changes in people to be consulted, etc. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During a recent conversation that my colleague
and I held with the client, I realized that we had employed several “driving”
strategies to help all of us navigate the bends in the road.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Start over and drive a different route </u>… As the
consultants/facilitators, my colleague and I encouraged the client to go back
to the start of the journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What had
been clear in terms of desired outcomes and process was now possibly changed
due to the new information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We would
likely end up at the same destination yet would possibly go a different route,
make different stops, and visit different people along the way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Have an emergency road kit </u>… We discussed whether the
client needed consultation or facilitation services.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What needs to be in the road kit?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How much expert knowledge about the
information was required?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who could best
provide it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was our role to learn the information
or to facilitate discussions about it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Did we need to know about the internal combustion of the car? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or was our role to ride shotgun (be the
passenger and back seat driver) and suggest different ways to drive and ways to
observe the scenery?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Invite different passengers </u>… We talked about the
passengers for the road trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who was
most needed to give direction to the journey (guidance and leadership), to
share stories along the way (content and information), and to take care of the
gas, food, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(logistical supporters)?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Enjoy the ride </u>… Our client, my colleague and I all
agreed that we would wholeheartedly enjoy the changing road trip, particularly
the bends in the road!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Often a detour or
side trip proves to be the highlight of a journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will move forward, secure in our ability
to change the process to obtain the best results from the best people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My facilitation blog question is:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are your experiences in “bends in the
roads” when consulting and facilitating?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How did you successfully navigate them?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-8848400421598306102011-12-23T09:23:00.000-07:002011-12-23T09:23:39.207-07:00Facilitate … with inspiration from a Christmas Poem!<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Twas the Night before the Workshop<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em>(with thanks and apologies
to Clement Clarke Moore)<o:p></o:p></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Twas the night before the workshop and all through the
house<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The facilitator was running; way too loud for a mouse!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The flipcharts were stacked by the door with great care.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">She couldn’t forget them if she tripped over them there.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The laptop was snuggled all secure in its case,<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And the camera was charging, settled into its base. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The felt markers were packed in the workshop supply kit.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The facilitator took a deep breath; no need for a fit.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When out in the office there arose such a clatter,<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">She dashed to her desk to see what was the matter.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The phone was ringing and the text was blinking.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">She took a quick look and her heart was sinking.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">An emergency note from the client arrived.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Could she plan an extra day to help them thrive?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So much to discuss; so much to decide,<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">They needed three days with her as a guide.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">She looked at her daytimer and took a deep breath.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">With a bit of rescheduling, she could do her best.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">She phoned her client and agreed to the plan.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">She said to herself, “I know that I can.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Serving the client was her strongest desire.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hosting great conversations was how she was “wired”.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, she stayed up a few hours and reworked the design.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">She knew in her heart that all would be fine.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The facilitator went to bed excited yet steady,<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">To help the group the next day, she surely was ready!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em>To all facilitators, may you have calm nights before the workshop!<o:p></o:p></em></span><br />
<em>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!<o:p></o:p></span></em><br />
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<br /></div>Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-73181731755995817292011-10-28T14:14:00.002-06:002011-10-31T08:55:58.043-06:00Facilitate ... within someone else’s designIt’s good to get “shook up” every now and then! I normally facilitate and design discussions, meetings, and workshops myself or with one or two co-facilitators; based, of course, on conversations with the clients as to purpose and outcomes. Recently, I was energized and challenged by facilitating within another facilitator’s design for a large conference. 14 facilitators arrived on-site with a design that had been emailed to them; participated in an orientation to fully understand the intent and design; and then worked with small groups of 12 to 14 participants to host four conversations over two days.
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Wow! I learned a lot!<br />
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Firstly, I enjoyed strong evidence of my foundational belief in the wisdom of people. The participants in the group that I was privileged to facilitate were passionate, articulate, respectful, thoughtful, intense, inspiring, and fun! I appreciated their willingness to engage fully in the conversation, to try new things with a sense of play (toe tag, anyone?), to listen deeply to each other, and to challenge and contribute ideas with great respect and curiosity.
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Secondly, a big “shout out” to the lead facilitator and designer who showed grace under fire –listening and responding to advice (solicited and unsolicited!) from the facilitators; balancing this advice with the purpose of the conference and the directions from the conference convenors; honouring the desires and feedback from the participants; and when necessary, standing firm on outcomes and principles of facilitation. He set an example that I will follow in similar circumstances.
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Thirdly, while the processes and methodology for the overall conference and small group discussions may not have be my first choice, I re-learned that someone else’s design and methods are effective when based on sound values. I facilitated within the process; only adjusting the specific discussion techniques I used. Someone else’s process worked!
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And lastly, I loved learning how 13 other facilitators approached the same process and methodology. This was a fabulous way to gain new insights, ideas, and activities. We all had the same questions to use in the sessions, and the activities ranged from “walk and talk” meetings in the outdoors to around table discussions of the questions in a linear fashion to drawings to small group work to free-flow conversations. And each worked! Of most importance, most of the facilitators co-decided with the small group participants about the preferred technique to use.<br />
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I heartily enjoyed myself, gained much, contributed much and reflected on my design and facilitation approach. Shake it up now and then! Enjoy and do what works well for you AND stretch yourself by working within someone else’s design.
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My facilitation blog question is: What have you learned from facilitating within someone else’s design and process?Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-57519433199690429452011-09-29T15:08:00.000-06:002011-09-29T15:13:40.966-06:00Facilitate … by watching, listening, participating.I watched ... I listened ... I supported ... I participated! Is this facilitation? Yes! Last week, I was part of a gathering of community leaders celebrating accomplishments in their communities. I was a support person for the facilitation team and since they were so fantastic, I was able to enjoy being a participant.<br /><br />I had so much fun immersing myself in the conversations without the responsibility of focussing objectively on the process, group dynamics, timing, and ebb and flow of the discussion. <br /><br />I learned so much from watching and listening to the facilitators and other participants. It is so great to see different ways of doing things. I observed unique ways of opening the discussions, making eye contact with others, and explaining discussion methods. I laughed my head off at how a squealing monkey stuffed toy was thrown around the group.<br /><br />As an added bonus, some of the participants volunteered to facilitate several discussion activities. They invited us to explore our leadership styles through four discussion techniques. Another revelation! I had successfully used the four techniques many times before; however, seeing them combined in one discussion activity was a new and effective approach.<br /><br />Thanks to the fabulous group of talented individuals at the ACE Communities Celebration Retreat. I learned so much by watching, listening, participating.<br /><br />My facilitation blog question is: What have you learned about facilitation by NOT facilitating?<br />Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6845915948834198947.post-30954956884468329192011-08-08T15:39:00.001-06:002011-08-08T15:43:03.939-06:00My Facilitation … Don’ts!I do windows … but I don’t do icebreakers, parking lots, and “touchy-feely”!<br /><br />It’s summertime and the livin’ is easy! Therefore, this blog is mostly a light-hearted look at a few aspects of facilitation that I don’t do. I fully support other facilitators’ right and choice to use them. Facilitation is very much an individual approach and style. What works for me may not work for others and vice versa. Although written in a light-hearted vein and for fun, I hold strong values about these “don’ts”. <br /><br /> What’s on my “don’t” list? Icebreakers to start! These are activities generally conducted at the beginning of a facilitated session to help participants to get to know one another, to energize them, to prepare for the topics of the session, and to create a positive group atmosphere. Yes … at the beginning of a session, I invite participants to introduce themselves and to take part in a conversation or an activity that helps them “become fully present” and engaged in the session topic, to start to set a climate of support, inclusion and commitment, and to have fun. I just don’t call them icebreakers! I don’t like the image of participants needing to break ice between them. I use terms such as introductory activities, opening conversation, and checking-in activities. <br /><br />I don’t use a “parking lot”. This is a term I hear used by many individuals when we are planning a facilitated session. The idea of a parking lot is that any topic not on the agenda is placed in the parking lot; typically, a flipchart page taped to a wall. The topic is “parked”, hopefully, for future consideration. Unfortunately, my experience is that the parking lot is never re-visited, and the flipchart page is recycled or thrown away at the end of the session. Therefore, I encourage participants to “drive” the newly introduced topic rather than “park” it. By drive, I mean that the group intentionally and immediately decides what will be done with the topic; i.e. decide whether it is important enough to include on the agenda or to discuss immediately or that it is not relevant and will not be discussed or deliberately assign the topic as a responsibility to one or two individuals for follow-up. I believe that the topics typically placed on a parking lot need a decision and possibly, an action.<br /><br />I don’t do “touchy-feely” activities, or as clients have said to me, “those games where we all play and touch each other and get emotional”. When I ask clients what they mean by touchy-feely games, I find that they worry about physical touching such as holding hands and baring their souls through deeply personal conversations. I share with clients my values about everyone having a voice, being heard and listening; encouraging honesty, openness and authenticity; using various discussion methods to meet the needs of different learning styles; and the importance and joy of having fun. I use discussion and decision-making activities that meet these values without invading personal spaces (physical and emotional) of participants. I often use physical activities and quick games because I believe that people like being playful and having fun at appropriate times in a session. For example, a game of Rock Paper Scissors or a variation will quickly get people laughing and relaxing without having them in too much physical contact. A high five is often preferable to holding hands. And I’m used a conga line and a bum pat – believe me, these were appropriate! I use conversation methods that allow participants to share what they feel is important to share, to the extent that they are comfortable. Participants sitting in pairs and talking about each other’s role in a community shares personal information and creates a relationship without being too emotionally invasive. <br /><br />When I plan and facilitate activities, I say out loud the intent and purpose of each activity. If it makes sense to the participants and me, it is normally a good match to help the group reach the desired outcome.<br /><br />My facilitation blog question is: What are your facilitation do’s and don’ts?<br /><br />Barb Pedersenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09697294282337929707noreply@blogger.com3