Rules of thumb
for conducting the workshop
FRAMING THE WORKSHOP
I
ntroduce yourself to the participants and make them feel welcome. You should also go around the room and introduce the participants to each other. You might consider asking participants to say something interesting about their backgrounds during this introduction process.
1.
Introduce Yourself
FRAMING THE WORKSHOP
E
xplain your intent and the value of the workshop for participants.
2.
Explain Your Intent
FRAMING THE WORKSHOP
T
ell people how long the workshop will last (approximately) and the agenda (i.e. steps) you will undertake.
3.
Set Parameters
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
E
nsure that you have ample table space and chairs for all participants.
4.
Scope the Space
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
E
arly on in the workshop, invite participants to make suggestions, improvise, or add on to the structure of the workshop. Tell them that you are open to their improvements.
5.
Invite suggestions
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
U
se language that is accessible to participants. Pay attention to words that may not be familiar to them. If something doesn’t land, try describing it a different way.
6.
Be accessible
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
P
ut yourself on the level of participants. Consider sitting with them throughout the workshop or at various points.
7.
Interact at eye level
LEADING GROUP DISCUSSION
C
reate a space for shared dialogue-where participants can collect or visualize their ideas as they discuss them. Be creative here and use what’s around you-a brick wall might be a great place for posting sticky notes, or a whiteboard might be a great surface for documenting ideas or process.
8.
Create space for shared dialogue
LEADING GROUP DISCUSSION
I
f the environment and group dynamic permit, invite one of the participants to help visualize the ideas of the group during the stage in which participants are discussing the results of their brainstorming.
9.
Introduce a co-lead
VISUALIZING THE IDEAS
M
ake the materials for visualization approachable by opening them and laying them out. Don’t leave things (like the spaghetti or cotton balls) in the box.
10. Make materials approachable
Developed by: Erin Dora Hina Shahid Rebecca Horton
www.co-create.tumblr.com