Content introduction Chapter I building Great Work relationships Defining a Good Relationship

Do’s and Don’ts of Good Facilitation
Do’s Don’ts
Position yourself to face the entire group.
Smile at individuals.
Listen carefully while they talk.
Maintain eye contact.
Nod affirmatively, be positive.
Talk with all group members.
Continually scan the group with your eyes.
Encourage shy, withdrawn participants to participate.
Keep your body open i.e., unfold your arms, uncross your legs.
Turn your back to the group.
Frown or look judgemental.
Shuffle papers or look at your watch while group members are talking.
Stare at individuals.
Remain impassive.
Talk to only a few people. l Scan too rapidly.
Impose your beliefs as the only correct ones.
Force people to speak.
Get personal, argumentative.
Walk around unnecessarily, as it distracts the participants.
Common Problems a Teacher may face
l Someone disagrees and wants to argue with you: Welcome disagreement, hear him with full attention, and find common ground. Start further discussion from this common ground, elaborate on the points where disagreement exists.
l Everyone looks bored: Encourage participation from the students.
l Some students monopolise the discussion: Give recognition to their knowledge and enthusiasm and control them diplomatically.
l Private conversation erupts: Encourage them to share what they are talking about with everyone. In most of these situations, students are talking about the issues being discussed but may hesitate to voice opinions openly.
Two students start arguing with each other: Do not take sides. Verbalise the positions of the students and ask others in the group to give their opinion on the issue, then objectively summarise the discussion.
Controversial topic: In case of a controversial topic steer the discussion towards the key messages given at the end of each activity. The effort should be towards reaching a consensus.