The Focused Conversation Method
Take our Introductory Level or our Certificate Level self-directed course and learn one of the most powerful methods for any facilitator.
- Lead great conversations
- Enhance creativity
- Reduce conflict
- Promote team spirit
- Generate solutions
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 losing 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 which is also available as a Self-Directed module.
Book, manual and texts
This self-paced, self-directed course contains all the theory, and more, of the in-person course. Manuals, texts and books are downloadable. Theory is transferred through readings, videos, interactive games and practical assignments.
Live classroom videos
Live classroom videos show instructors using the method and discussing questions with students. They demonstrate best practice use of the method. Stages, steps and procedures of the method are explained in detail.
Examples of real client work
This self directed course includes examples of products from actual clients. Templates are included to prepare for real client work. These are downloadable.
Templates and practice instructions
The course includes assignments that help build confidence in your use of the method. Some assignments are done by yourself, and others can be done with family, friends or co-worker groups or colleagues.
Introductory Level
Join the Introductory Level 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 Method with clients after this introductory level.
Certificate Level
With the Certificate Level your exercises and assignments will get personal written feedback online from a Technology of Participation (ToP) facilitation practitioner. You can arrange free live telephone or live coaching when you need it, for up to an hour. 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. You will get access to our learning management system. 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 of the Certificate Level 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$500.00 on that course.
Company Guide Level
The Company Guide Level is for those who want to help others within their company 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
- Videos of live demonstrations of the method
- Book and manual
- Classroom instructional videos
- Online assignments
- Offline assignments with colleagues, friends or family
- Database of hundreds of conversations
- Design templates
- Loads of examples
- Experienced facilitators: reinforce what you are doing well and find those areas that need work.
- New facilitators: start out on a solid foundation with best practices used by professional facilitators around the world.
- Executives, managers and other leaders: acquaint yourself with key facilitation skills that will immediately enhance your leadership capacity.
- Consultants: learn how to engage your clients more effectively in discussions and solutions.
- Presenters and trainers: get new practical tools that enhance the adult learning principles.
- Anyone who wants to be assessed by the International Association of Facilitators as an IAF Certified Professional Facilitator (CPF) or an ICA Certified ToP Facilitator (CTF)
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.
The AFCSD Introductory course has all same material, videos and assignments as the Certificate course except there is no Certificate of Completion at the end, and there is no feedback from trainers.
You can upgrade to the AFCSD Certificate course at any time by contacting our ICA Associate Inc. registrar.
Graduates of the AFCSD Certificate course get a 30% discount when you register for the Group Facilitation Methods course in-person, live online or self-directed.
