When groups come together to generate solutions to complex problems involving multiple stakeholders and a range of interests, effective facilitation skills become critical to create the space for meaningful discussion and collaborative decision making. Effective facilitation rarely comes naturally and when practiced well, can elicit the best from a group of people. It is the ability to manage, but not control in order to give people the opportunity to safely explore a range of ideas, while maintaining a focus towards achieving general commitment to an agreed solution. The facilitator's skill is to use techniques that will optimise both creative and analytical processes, while creating a sense of engagement and participation by all.

This program will assist you to learn the skills to manage the multiple roles of a facilitator, and the complexity of group processes and structure.

Target Audience
Developed for people who are required to facilitate internal and external groups in a range of contexts.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this program you will be able to:
•    Understand group dynamics
•    Manage group processes, including conflict and passive behaviour
•    Understand the difference between chairing, training and facilitation
•    Hold a powerful facilitator identity
•    Understand and use personal motivation strategies to energise a discussion
•    Use interesting techniques to further participation and problem solving
•    Draw ideas together, showing their relationship to the purpose of the meeting.

Program Content
•    A systems approach to facilitation
•    Group dynamics
•    Managing your emotional state as a facilitator
•    Group motivation strategies
•    Decision making and problem solving techniques
•    Creating a positive experience for participants
•    Learn a range of facilitation techniques
•    Summarising and recording the major views of the group.

Methodology
This two-day program is highly experiential and includes group work, practice facilitation and theoretical input.

Date and Time:

Program 1:
2 day program
Thursday 22nd and Friday 23rd July 2010
9.30am - 5.00pm both days

Program 2:
2 day program
Wednesday 1st and Thursday 2nd September 2010
9.30am - 5.00pm both days

Program 3:
2 day program
Wednesday 24th and Thursday 25th November 2010
9.30am - 5.00pm both days

A comprehensive suggested reading list will be included in your notes.

Facilitator
Peter Canny Senior Consultant, Centre for Organisation Development.

Venue:       
The Centre for Organisation Development
263 - 329 Lorimer Street
Port Melbourne

Cost:          
$960 (inc GST) or $885 (inc GST) for OD Professionals members
(includes a comprehensive workbook, lunch, refreshments and parking)

Please click here to download a registration form