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Best Practice in Review: Study Circles
BY MAUREEN BROWN |
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 A growing number of cities and communities are using study circles to bring citizens together around issues of local concern. A study circle is a form of facilitated dialogue that through personal stories, discussion and consideration of data or other documentation allows participants to examine an issue from many points of view; consider multiple approaches for resolution and ultimately, develop ideas for action and change. While anyone can start a circle, municipal governments and organizations with community service mandates are increasingly initiating them (or partnering with community organizers), as a way of building civic participation among diverse groups of people, particularly where issues are divisive or where people feel excluded and marginalized. Study circles are the second phase of a 3-step technique for engaging diverse communities. For more information on study circles visit: www.everyday-democracy.org.
Tips for Engaging Community:
- Use a multi-layered approach that includes, e.g. advisory committees, service agencies and end-users/consumers;
- Make sure a cross-section of voices—including dissenters—is at the table;
- Remember the impact of marginalization…people may need to tell you as part of (or even before) giving you the information they came for;
- Be open to possibilities, but don’t promise what you can’t deliver.
Maureen Brown is the founder and lead consultant of DiversityTrainersPlus which specializes in assessment, training and strategic planning to equip organizations in maximizing the benefits of diversity. For more information visit www.diversitytrainersplus.com or phone 905.338.7515. |
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