Structure of the Guided Dialogue

Understanding the Structure is a Key Point for Success

TOPIC:  The focus or subject of the dialogue. It sets the boundaries of what the group will talk about.

RATIONAL AIM:
The intent or practical goal of the dialogue. This determines the direction of the conversation.

EXPERIENTIAL AIM:
The subjective or inner impact of the dialogue. This determines how the group will experience the conversation.

OPENING:
The welcome and context for the dialogue. This sets the stage and introduces the topic.

OBJECTIVE LEVEL: This level asks questions that get out the facts, data, or information. The questions asked are easy to answer and invite everyone's participation. It engages the five senses. (sight, sound, taste, smell, & touch)

RESPONSIVE LEVEL: The questions in the level elicit the participants' imaginative, intuitive and emotional responses to the topic. It acknowledges emotions, memories and initial associations.

INTERPRETIVE LEVEL: The questions in this level catalyze the sharing of experiences, perspectives, assumptions, and individual meanings. By sharing values, associations, and implications, it builds collective consciousness and shared awareness within the group.

DEPTH LEVEL: This level draws out the participants' latent knowledge, exposing deeper meaning and exposing the universal dimension of life. It exposes future resolves and develops a shared sense of purpose and meaning.

CLOSING: Confirms and affirms the group's experience and resolve.

 

Contact Jean Watts by email or call the Facilitative Leadership Training Institute at 504/913-7028 to discuss your organization's facilitation or training needs.