ABCD-Training-of-Trainers-Tools-July-2013

• be large enough to accommodate everyone
• have sufficient air and lighting
Having a conducive setting is important. However, sometimes there may not be many options available.
By sitting in a circle (where possible), one immediately creates a relaxed atmosphere and sense of
intimacy. It is also easier for the group to make eye contact and to encourage participation.
Proper introductions are also important as well as giving clear information about the purpose of a
meeting or workshop as well as the time frames you will be following. The facilitator’s attitude, style and
personality also set a tone.
Establishing Trust
It is important that the facilitator is open about the process and its objective. The methodology should
be clear upfront as well as the various roles and responsibilities. Invite questions or concerns before a
process begins and throughout so that everyone has realistic expectations. Address the issue of
confidentiality and possibly set ‘ground rules’ at the beginning. It is important that trust be established,
but it cannot be forced. It will grow naturally as mutual respect is fostered.
Expressing one’s humanity is a key aspect of building a positive relationship that is balanced and
supportive of a developmental and people-centred approach.
Establishing Norms (‘Ground Rules’)
It may not always be necessary, but often as a first activity, the facilitator can agree on ‘terms of
reference’/ norms or ‘ground rules’ with a group. In other words, what needs to be in place for everyone
to best work together (e.g. respect, active participation, punctuality, cell phones off, commitment to
decisions etc.) These norms should be reinforced to help make the process run more smoothly.
Appreciative Inquiry
Appreciative Inquiry simply put is a way of asking questions and surfacing the positive “life giving” and
“generative” forces in a system. It is a collaborative systems-wide approach that is based on the
understanding that people construct and create meaning about the world through their interactions.
Appreciative Inquiry strengthens people's confidence in their own capacities and can inspire collective
action. By focusing on positive and energizing experiences (rather than the conventional problem posing
approach), facilitators start to unlock positive energies and encourage people to look at themselves in a
more empowering way. This naturally builds confidence, pride and a unified spirit.
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