Conversation Cafe is an informal dialogue method which invites people to take part in discussions about topical issues in an informal setting.
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Description
'Conversation Cafe' can refer to activities that involve informal, hosted, drop-in discussions in cafes, bookshops and other public places.
The conversationcafe.org organisation in the US suggests the following process:
• Assemble up to 8 people plus host; agree on a hearty topic, find a talking object that is to be passed around, and set a time (1-2 hours). The host explains the process and agreements.
• Round 1: Pass around the talking object e.g. a cushion; each person speaks briefly to the topic, no feedback or response.
• Round 2: Again with the talking object, each person deepens their own comments or speaks to what has meaning now.
• Dialogue: Open, spirited conversation. Use the talking object if there is domination, contention, or lack of focus.
• Final Round: With the talking object, each person says briefly what was meaningful to them.
They also describe six principles for good conversation, which can be used as guidelines:
- Open-mindedness: Listen to and respect all points of view.
- Acceptance: Suspend judgment as best you can.
- Curiosity: Seek to understand rather than persuade.
- Discovery: Question assumptions, look for new insights.
- Sincerity: Speak what has personal heart and meaning.
- Brevity: Go for honesty and depth but don't go on and on.
Participants
• Anyone - the process is usually open to anybody who is interested in the topic.
Costs
Low:
• All that is needed is a space to host the conversation, usually a café or other public space, a talking object and somebody who is willing to host the discussion.
Approximate time expense
Low:
• A Conversation Cafe usually lasts between 1-2 hours.
Strengths
- Informal
- Open
- Flexible
- Encourages learning, listening and sharing views
- May inspire people to take action
- Stimulates debate
- Meet new people
Weaknesses
- Does not lead to any particular goal
- Cannot be used to reach a decision
- Likely to only encourage certain participants
Origin
Different versions of the Conversation Cafe idea exist under different names around the world.
Photo credit Brendan Rankin: Flickr