Annex 3:  Using Small Groups

Much of the debriefing will be carried out in small group venues.  Use your judgment to organize these groups to produce the best results possible (for example, it may be helpful to place at least one of the more highly experienced staff at each table.  You may decide, depending upon the context, that it is best to separate senior managers from low-mid level staff – or not.  Here you should get some guidance from the hosting NGO.

Each time small groups are used, remind participants to select a small group facilitator and a reporter who will be expected to present the group’s findings to the plenary group.  Their specific roles are listed here:

Small Group Facilitator Roles:

At the start of the small group discussions:

• Clarify the task
• Discuss methods
• Remind the group of the time constraints

During the discussions:

• Initiate the debate
• Be impartial
• Encourage participation of all group members
• Focus the group on the tasks
• Reformulate and summarize as needed
• Test the group for an emerging consensus
• Try to lead the group to a conclusion

At the End

• Summarize the lessons, conclusions and key points

Small Group Reporter Roles

Recording:

• Use the flip chart as directed by the workshop facilitator
• Print in large letters.  Use dark colors (red does NOT show up well.)
• Record main points as they are expressed by group members
• Ask for clarification if needed
• Don’t continue until the point is clearly recorded
• Rewrite for the report to plenary if necessary and time allows

Reporting:

• Stick to the time limit assigned by the workshop facilitator
• Speak slowly and clearly
• Focus on the main points first and then add detail as time permits
• Remind the plenary group of the task
• Finish with a quick summary of main points