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Dialogue circle

Explore a question or a problem through deep listening

Pratique

Aim

The circle is one of the oldest discussion structures. It is naturally conducive to exchange because in a circle, hierarchical links between people don’t exist. The principle of equality applies to everyone, including the facilitator: primus inter pares!

Mutual listening, silence, and slowness allow new ideas or ways of solving problems to emerge.

Instructions

Time needed: 10 to 60 minutes

Materials:
As many chairs as there are people
A space that allows everyone to be seated in a circle without blind spots
Optional: visual of the dialogue circle rules

Key steps

As a facilitator, you tell the group how much time they have to experience the dialogue circle and remind them of the rules:

Rules of dialogue circle :

Talk to the centre (what is spoken serves the intention and is for everyone)
One conversation at a time (parallel conversations generally affect the listening quality of a group)
Apply the principles of kindness, respect and reservation of judgment
Listening to the experience of others and of oneself, regardless of hierarchy
Express yourself by saying “I” rather than “you” or “we”
Speak concisely and get to the point
Everything that is spoken is listened to fully, without interruption
Talk about what is present and/or important to you
Times of silence are welcome! (they are useful for individual reflection and collective perspective)

You then put forward the situation or problem that the group is invited to reflect on.

A “speech object” is placed in the centre of the circle to help regulate the flow of exchanges if necessary: the person who wants to speak holds the object and puts it down when they are done.

The dialogue circle can then begin. There is no predefined speaking order: everyone can share their ideas/contributions when they feel it is the right time for them.

Debrief: summarise the conversation by specifying that it is a “collective recollection” and ask participants what their personal learnings are.

Tips and Advice

It is recommended to have two facilitators to make it easier to write up the summary. One facilitates the dialogue circle, the other takes notes.
Facilitating a dialogue circle requires a lot of attention without necessarily requiring much intervention on your part. When you facilitate a circle, you are above all guaranteeing respect for active listening, silences and the opportunity for everyone to express themselves.
The use of a “speech object” is not mandatory but it is necessary if participants are unable to maintain the level of attention and listening conducive to in-depth dialogue.