Discussion guidelines

These discussions will be more formal than a general social conversation. The aim is to help discuss the topic from various perspectives, as a means to gain a broader understanding of the issue(s). These are just suggestions to support the discussions.

Discussion rules

  • One person speaks at a time.

  • If someone wants to speak, they raise their hand. If several people want to speak at once, the facilitator takes note of the names and they can speak one at a time.

  • Everyone should get a chance to speak if they want.

  • Show respect for others opinions, even if you don’t agree.

  • Decide on a finishing time before starting.

Facilitator

A facilitator can be useful in leading the discussions. The facilitator should make sure that everyone in the group gets a chance to speak, and that no single person(s) dominate the discussion. The facilitator should also ask counter questions, to look at the issue from different perspectives. Tips for the facilitator:

  • Introduce yourself

  • Ask the participants of the group to introduce themselves

  • Explain ‘discussion rules’

  • Introduce the theme for the discussion

  • Use follow-up questions as needed, for example

    • “What do you mean by...”

    • “What do you think?” (specifically directed to someone else)

  • Try to get the group to think about other sides of the discussion, for example:

    • “Can we understand this from a different perspective?”

    • “What if we look at it from a different perspective, such as ….”

    • “Are there other ways of understanding this issue?”

    • “Does everyone share this view?”

  • Try to take notice of the energy in the room.

  • Keep the time. Remind the group about the time as needed.

Secretary

It is not necessary to make notes on the discussion, but it is advised to make a note of what is said, and then write a summary of the discussion. This can be sent to the group after, if of interest. This could also be posted on the blog of Noora Wellbeing (see below).

Consent & confidentiality

Before each discussion starts, it should be made clear to the group that (unless the participants of the group wish) no personal information will be shared about the group. If the discussion is posted on the blog, this can be done under the name of the moderator, secretary, or even anonymously.

Blog post

If the group choses to post the discussion on the blog, the following information should be included:

  • Title of discussion

  • Country

  • Name(s) of moderator etc, or Anonymous

  • Summary of discussion

The post should be sent to the secretary of Noora Wellbeing, who will screen.

NW will not post any blogs that in any way are racist, disrespectful or abusive, or that promote personal agendas. Noora Wellbeing retains the right to refuse to publish any posts that do not comply with the mission and objectives of the association.