The Focused Conversation Method
One of the most powerful methods for any facilitator.
Great facilitation is both art and science. In this course the science includes communication theory, group dynamics and brain function moving beyond “seat-of-the-pants” facilitation and reliance on instinct. The Focused Conversation Method, the most vital method for professional facilitators, gives you a thorough grounding in all facilitation practice. The art of facilitation in this course allows you to take any group safely through a discussion on any topic and get results without loosing your way.
Learn online at your own pace with classroom videos, assignments, texts, examples and templates. The course includes specialized conversations relevant to supervision, teamwork, evaluation, coaching, leadership, planning and much more.
The Art of Focused Conversation is the first half of the Group Facilitation Methods course and is available only as a Self-Directed module.
Theory
This self-paced, self-directed course contains all the theory of the in-person and the online versions. Manuals, texts and books are downloadable in this self-directed course. Theory is transferred through readings, videos, interactive games and practical assignments. The videos can be viewed until Sept 2025.
Demonstration
Videos of instructors using the method show actual classroom case studies. They demonstrate best practice use of the method. Stages, steps and procedures of the method are explained in detail.
Application
This self directed course includes examples of products from actual clients. Templates are included to prepare for real client work. These are downloadable.
Practice
The course includes assignments that help build confidence in your use of the method. Some assignment are done by yourself, and others with family, friends or co-worker groups or colleagues.
Introductory Level
At the Introductory Level join online and get the theory, demonstration, application and practice modules. Learn at your own pace and practice on your own with family, friends and colleagues. You will be able to use the Focused Conversation for client work after this level.
Certificate Level
With the Certificate Level your exercises and assignments will get personal written feedback online from a ToP facilitation practitioner. You can arrange free limited live coaching when you need it. You get a Certificate of Completion that is equivalent to the first day of the Group Facilitation Methods course.
Costs
The cost for the Introductory Level is CDN$395.00 plus tax, or approximately US$275. On payment you get username and password to https://icaassociates.brightspace.com/d2l/login until September 2025. Access the learning management system as much as you want.
If you have already paid for the Introductory level you add only CDN$395.00 for the Certificate Level. Regular cost is CDN$790.00 plus HST, or approximately US$550.00. Make your choice when you register.
If you take the Group Facilitation Methods (GFM Live Online, In Person, or Self Directed) course within a year after completion of the Certificate Level, you get a discount of CAD$600.00 on that course.
Company Guide Level
The Company Guide Level is for those who want to help others within their company how to use the Focused Conversation Method. To become a Company Guide you need the AFCSD Certificate Level, the Group Facilitation Methods course and several verifiable FCM uses with clients.
Benefits
Focus group energy and move to resolution
- Hold discussions and dialogue that actually gets somewhere
- Explore the most difficult and contentious topics safely
- Use a method with decades of proven success
Build motivation and improve morale
- Help groups resolve conflict
- Build respect and trust in groups
- Create lively effective teamwork
- Generate positive interaction
Make groups more productive and effective
- Conduct easier, faster meetings
- Save time and money on meetings
- Involve participants in discussions
- Get more ideas into the mix
Focused Conversation Method
- Demonstrations of the Focused Conversation
- Theory and group dynamics
- Where to use the Focused Conversation
- Practice
- Design effective conversations
- Practice Focused Conversation
- Variations of the method
- Experienced facilitators by reinforcing what you are already doing well and pointing out those areas that need work.
- New facilitators by starting you out on a solid foundation with best practices used by professional facilitators around the world.
- Executives, managers and other leaders by acquainting you with key facilitation skills that will immediately enhance your leadership capacity.
- Consultants by showing how to engage your clients more effectively in discussions and solutions.
- Presenters and trainers who will get new practical tools that will enhance the adult learning principles they know are important.
- Anyone who wants to be assessed by the International Association of Facilitators as a Certifies Professional Facilitator (CPF)
Learn one of the most powerful methods to enhance your facilitation
- The Focused Conversation Method is central to all facilitation and can be used with all other tools and methods to enhance products and generate commitment.
- The four levels of the Focused Conversation Method can be used in facilitation, coaching, team building, planning, conflict resolution, leadership and much much more.
