Dynamics of Workshop Facilitation

UX Research

This is an ongoing research that delves into the multifaceted role of card deck games in facilitation, examining their impact on emotional, psychological, and tonal dynamics within workshop environments.

Drawing from the insights of experts such as Ciliotta Chehade and Arnold Mages, the study emphasizes equity-centered processes that prioritize diverse perspectives and creative methodologies. By exploring specialized card games, inspired by Arcila’s method, the research illuminates valuable insights into effective facilitation techniques and communication strategies.

Let's Talk!

Listen

Listen is the card game that makes having difficult conversations simple and approachable.

It is a tool that facilitates those little check ins; keeping communication channels open and bonds strong.

It is an interactive and approachable way to act on those difficult conversations that can arise within our relationships.

Listen offers tips, tools, and techniques that can help all parties engage in listening with intention and speaking to lived experiences.

Group

The Group Works deck of 100 full-colour cards (91 patterns + 9 category cards) names what skilled facilitators and other participants do to make things work.

The content is more specific than values and less specific than tips and techniques, cutting across existing methodologies with a designer's eye to capture the patterns that repeat.

The deck can be used to plan sesssions, reflect on and debrief them, provide guidance, and share responsibility for making the process go well.

It has the potential to provide a common reference point for practitioners, and serve as a framework and learning tool for those studying the field.

Works

Storyteller
Tactics

Designed to guide you through the storytelling process. It takes you from why you need a story, right through to who to tell your story too.

Storyteller Tactics is used by facilitators to run brand, marketing and communications workshops. It’s used by designers and researchers to present and tell the story of their work. And it’s used by entrepreneurs and execs to pitch work and persuade clients.

By integrating insights from various sources, including Storyteller Tactics, Workshop Tactics, Let’s Talk!, Foresight, Group Works, and Brian Eno’s Oblique Strategies, the research enriches our understanding of how card deck games can enhance facilitation practices, fostering collaboration and innovation within workshop settings.

The study involved mapping cards from the “Listen Let’s Talk” game into categories based on the words and visuals present on each card. This game, designed to facilitate and ease conversations between two individuals, served as a rich source of insights into various aspects of facilitation. Each card was carefully analyzed and categorized according to properties such as engagement, communication, feedback, dynamics, and adaptability.

Through this mapping process, I was able to identify patterns, themes, and connections between different cards, shedding light on the diverse facets of facilitation. By categorizing the cards based on their inherent qualities and functionalities, the study provided a comprehensive framework for understanding how different elements contribute to effective facilitation practices.

Similarly, the study extended its categorization methodology to “Storyteller Tactics”, a card deck designed to enhance storytelling skills—a crucial aspect of facilitation. By categorizing these cards based on properties such as engagement, communication, and adaptability, the research aimed to illuminate how storytelling can be effectively integrated into facilitation processes. Each card was carefully examined to identify its potential impact on participant engagement, communication effectiveness, and adaptability to different group dynamics. Through this analysis, the study sought to uncover the underlying principles and strategies that contribute to compelling and impactful storytelling in facilitation contexts. By elucidating the connections between storytelling and key facilitation properties, the research provided valuable insights into how facilitators can leverage narrative techniques to create meaningful and engaging experiences for participants.

In addition to categorizing cards based on their properties, a separate study delved into the emotional and psychological aspects associated with the “Foresight” card game. This game, tailored to prompt individuals to contemplate future-related aspects of specific situations, served as a unique platform for exploring deeper emotional and psychological responses. Through qualitative analysis and participant feedback, the study aimed to uncover the underlying motivations, anxieties, and aspirations that arise when considering the future.

By examining the emotional and psychological impact of each card, the research provided valuable insights into how individuals perceive and navigate uncertainty, anticipate potential outcomes, and envision future scenarios. This study shed light on the complex interplay between emotions, cognition, and decision-making, offering valuable implications for how facilitators can leverage future-oriented exercises to foster reflection, resilience, and strategic thinking among participants.

Tonal Dynamics

There are several aspects associated to facilatation however, less has been explored about the facilitator’s tone. The facilitator’s tone emerges as a pivotal force, intricately shaping the atmosphere, participant engagement, and ultimate outcomes. The transformative power of an approachable and respectful tone is emphasized, creating a safe space conducive to active participation. Conversely, a dismissive or negative tone presents the risk of disengagement, potentially hindering the collaborative spirit that the session aims to cultivate.

To delve deeper into the impact of facilitator tone on group dynamics, a dedicated workshop was conducted at the Design Research Society Conference in Boston during June 2024. This interactive session involved a card-based activity where participants were tasked with completing specific objectives within a time constraint. By observing participant behavior and reactions under varying facilitator tones, we aimed to empirically analyze the correlation between tone and group engagement, productivity, and overall session effectiveness.