Here's how you can create an inclusive and diverse facilitated session.

1 Understand Bias

To create a truly inclusive session, you must first acknowledge and understand your own biases and how they may influence the facilitation process. Everyone has unconscious biases that can affect perceptions and interactions. By being aware of these, you can actively work to mitigate their impact. This includes being mindful of language, avoiding assumptions about participants' experiences, and ensuring that your facilitation techniques don't inadvertently favor certain groups over others.

2 Set Norms

At the beginning of your session, establish clear norms that promote inclusivity. These ground rules should encourage respectful dialogue, active listening, and the understanding that all contributions are valuable. Make it a point to articulate that diverse perspectives are not just welcome but necessary for a rich discussion. Setting these expectations early on helps create a safe space where participants feel comfortable sharing their thoughts.

3 Diverse Materials

When preparing for your session, select materials that reflect a range of cultures, experiences, and viewpoints. This can include case studies, examples, or even the facilitation methods you choose. By doing so, you demonstrate an appreciation for diversity and provide an opportunity for participants to see themselves represented in the content. This relevance can increase engagement and help to bridge gaps in understanding among a diverse group.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?