This Tip explains how to create a sense of inclusion for all participants by asking sufficient common ground questions.
Create a Sense of Inclusion For All Participants
“Asking questions is the first way to begin change.” Kubra Salt
Begin a training workshop by asking “common ground” questions. The purpose of common ground questions is to create a sense of sharing common ground. They do this by helping the participants feel that they have something in common with each other in relation to the training topic. It creates a sense of inclusion for all participants in a community of learners.
A “common ground” question begins with: “How many of you…?”
Model that the participants who relate to the question should respond by raising their hands.
Make sure that you ask enough questions to ensure that every participant feels included.
For example, at the beginning of a conflict management class, ask: “How many of you have experienced conflict in your life?”
It is a good possibility that everyone will raise their hands.
However, if you ask: “How many of you enjoy conflict?”, you probably need to follow that with another question.
For example, ask: “How many of you would rather do anything else than engage in conflict?”
You can then segue into an overview of how the training will meet those different needs.
There is an additional benefit to beginning a workshop with common ground questions. When you ask questions to which the participants respond by a show of hands, you subtly prepare them to actively participate during the training session.
May your learning be sweet.
Deborah
