As I think about this topic, I'm reminded of the following attributes.
- Sharing procedural information and information to consider prior to conversation so people can reflect, think, and prep for a good conversation.
- The need for a facilitator to lead a meeting beginning with introductions and the review of the agenda.
- The importance of a meaningful focus, one that most people are invested in--a focus that matters.
- The advantage of backwards design, working from the point of the success criteria of an initiative or plan and backwards as you map the work you plan to do.
- Taking the time needed to analyze a problem well before discussing solutions.
- The number of people involved--how many people are too many for a good discussion, share, collaboration, and initiatives.
- The need for tight foci--too many agenda items can diminish effectiveness.
- A positive attitude--giving everyone a chance to share, contribute, and debate. This process is really helped by preview of agenda, materials, and focus.
- Record keeping so that all have an accurate idea of what has happened throughout the process.
Effective process makes a difference when it comes to positive change--I want to focus on this topic next week as I collaborate with colleagues to teach children well.
