How can you use Circle Process for large group dialogue?

1 Benefits of Circle Process

Circle Process can help you create a safe and respectful space for large group dialogue, where everyone can speak and listen from the heart. Circle Process can also help you enhance the quality and depth of the dialogue, by inviting diverse and authentic voices, encouraging curiosity and empathy, and generating new insights and possibilities. Circle Process can also help you build a sense of community and belonging among the participants, by honoring their stories, values, and gifts, and creating a shared vision and purpose.

3 Roles in Circle Process

Besides the circle keeper, there are other roles that can help to support the Circle Process for large group dialogue. The host welcomes and introduces the participants, explains the purpose and agenda, and provides practical information. The guardian monitors the time, signals transitions, and watches the energy and mood of the group. They can also use a bell or drum to call for silence or attention. The scribe records main points, themes, or outcomes of the dialogue with a flip chart, board, or digital tool. Lastly, the harvester summarizes and synthesizes key learnings, insights, or actions from the dialogue. They can also invite feedback or reflections from the group.

4 Steps in Circle Process

Circle Process for large group dialogue consists of four main steps: opening, check-in, dialogue, and check-out. Each step has a unique purpose and format, and can be adapted to accommodate the needs and preferences of the group. The opening is the first step, where the host welcomes the participants, explains the Circle Process and its principles, and sets the intention and focus of the dialogue. It can also include an icebreaker, a ritual, or a story to create connection and engagement. The check-in is the second step, where the participants introduce themselves, share their expectations or hopes, and express how they are feeling or what they are bringing to the dialogue. This can be done in pairs, small groups, or in the whole circle. The dialogue is the third step; this is where participants explore the theme or question of the dialogue using a talking piece or another method. It can be structured in many different ways such as rounds, open discussion, fishbowl, world cafe, or appreciative inquiry. Additionally it may include breaks, activities, or exercises to stimulate creativity and interaction. Lastly there is the check-out; this is where participants reflect on their experience, share their feedback or learnings, and express their gratitude or appreciation. It can also include a harvest, a ritual, or a story to close the dialogue and celebrate its outcomes.

6 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?