The Art of Facilitation - Day 1/2

Smart Conversations

In order to have "smart" conversations in professional contexts, we need to use the deliberate acts described in the stepping stones to skilful dialogue and discussion. For me this is helping me to identify the parts that make up the whole in order to improve the whole ie improve learning conversations.

Firstly, the language of intent is important:

Stating our goal, our purpose and the learning intention is crucial. It is important to label the initial intent of a conversation at the outset. For example, rather than being ambushed into a discussion when it is not convenient, the following conversation could take place..." This is an important conversation. Can we set aside half an hour this afternoon for this discussion?"

It is important to phrase conversations carefully and to avoid unplanned learning conversations during the day.

There are 4 listening set asides. These are things that divert our attention from listening effectively.

1. Autobiographical listening: "sharing our own war stories" (Me too)
2. Inquistive listening: noticing what not to pay attention to (Tell me what I want to know)
3. Solution listening: offering advice (I know!)
4. Judgmental listening: judging what is said instead of listening ot understand. (Here she goes again)

It is easy to fall into the trap of all the above listening (non-listening!). While it might be well intentioned ie building relationships, empathy, commonalities, it is not always helpful in achieving understanding.