GET IT ALL

Breaking into smaller groups can be very useful. These small groups can be diads or triads or even larger. They can be selected randomly or self-selected. If used well, in a relatively short amount of time all participants have the opportunity to share their own point of view. Be sure to set clear time limits and select a Note-taker for each group. When the larger group reconvenes, the Note-takers relate the major points and concerns of their group. Sometimes, Note-takers can be requested to add only new ideas or concerns and not repeat something already covered in another report. It is also helpful for the scribe to write these reports so all can see the cumulative result and be sure every idea and concern gets on the list.

This is a very useful technique when ideas need to be solicited from the whole group. The normal rule of waiting to speak until the Facilitator recognizes you is suspended and everyone is encouraged to call out ideas to be written by the Scribe for all to see. It is helpful if the atmosphere created is one in which all ideas, no matter how unusual or incomplete, are appropriate and welcomed. This is a situation in which suggestions can be used as catalysts, with ideas building one upon the next, generating very creative possibilities. Avoid evaluating each other's ideas during this time.

The Facilitator might choose to focus what has been said by summarizing. The summary might be made by the facilitator, the Note-taker, or anyone else appropriate. This preempts a common problem, in which the discussion becomes circular, and one after another, speakers repeat each other.

This is a simple technique that encourages participation. The Facilitator states a question and then goes around the room inviting everyone to answer briefly. This is not an open discussion. This is an opportunity to individually respond to specific questions, not to comment on each other's responses or make unrelated remarks.

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1. Observe & Interact
2. Catch & Store ENERGY
3. Obtain a Yield
4. Apply Self Regulation & Accept Feedback
5. Use & Value Renewable Resources & Services
6. Produce No Waste (the problem is the solution)
7. Design from Pattern to Detail
8. Integrate Rather than Segregate
9. Use Slow & Small Solutions
10. Use & Value Diversity
11. Use Edges & Value the Marginal
12. Creatively Use & Respond to Change

The Facilitator, or any member recognized to speak by the Facilitator, can call for a test of Consensus. to do this, the Facilitator asks if there are any unresolved concerns which remain unaddressed. See: Level One: Broad Open Discussion- Call for Consensus