… we hosted a facilitation workshop: A practical introduction to Group Processes and Facilitation.
The charming Armoury Building (which was built in 1856) set the right tone for our event. Located adjacent to the museum in the centre of Adelaide, it is surrounded by plenty of lush green grass perfect for practicing energisers and icebreakers.
“Out beyond ideas of wrong-doing and right-doing there is a field. I’ll meet you there.” Rumi
Conversations emerged left right and centre as we ploughed our way through a wide variety of methods and techniques to encourage participation, engagement and meaningful dialogue.
Twelve bright minds joined us on this journey with fellows from Community Bridging Services, Leaders Institute of SA, Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology, UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide and Interwork, as well as students and individuals working on their own innovative projects.
“A vital question, a creative question, rivets our attention. The creative power of our minds is focused on the question. Knowledge emerges in response to these compelling questions. They open as new worlds…”
Verna Allee, The Knowledge Evolution: Expanding Organisational Intelligence
We looked at Circle Practice, Active Listening and Powerful Questioning to name but a few topics and equipped with these we looked at the science and principles of Open Space, World Café and Fishbowl. We also played with a number of our favourite energisers and icebreakers throughout this busy day such as Triangulation, Hie Ha Ho and Chaordic Counting.
As a result of learning by doing, we explored the themes and interests the participants themselves bring to the table.
Here’s a selection of some of the subject matters we delved into:
- How can we tackle intergenerational issues? Where do we get the resources to survive and flourish?
- How do we transition to a sustainable economy?
- Can we create a collaborative leadership model where a disparity of knowledge exists?
- How do you sustainably achieve a work-life balance, facing variable life challenges?
- How do we move from ‘talking’ to ‘doing’?
- How best to foster a community of social economy practitioners?
- How do we communicate social outcomes to audiences otherwise inclined especially business types?
Jason, Alex and I thank everyone for joining us and contributing to an energetic workshop. We enjoyed the day and gained a great deal from all your involvement and invaluable feedback.
We’d like to thank Alex for letting us in on his box of tricks, experience and knack for disruption - it’s a true pleasure to co-design and create with you. Last but not least, we’d also like to thank Charlotte for documenting the day with her splendid photography.
Would you like to attend one of our workshops? Let us know so we can make it happen!
