Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Continuing Studies

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Dialogue and Civic Engagement Certificate / Courses / Effective Group Facilitation

DLOG706

Effective Group Facilitation

Group facilitation is foundational for civic engagement and a basic requirement for all those interested in convening dialogue and supporting effective collaboration.

This course will offer a comprehensive understanding of group facilitation and an introduction to the tools and practices needed to deliver this role effectively. You will examine design processes for effective group discussion and establish a climate that enables frank and constructive dialogue—within and among groups, and in settings where there are differences in power, rank, and cultural backgrounds. Using examples, case studies and hands-on exercises, you will learn how to design and facilitate meetings or events, including those that involve polarized conflict or controversy.

This course is available at the following time(s) and location(s):

This course is available at the following time(s) and location(s):

Campus Session(s) Starting Instructor(s) Cost Seats available  
Online - Wednesday, Oct 13, 2021
Schedule details
  • Wed, Oct 13, ---
  • Fri, Oct 15, ---
  • Wed, Oct 20, ---
 Julian Griggs
Elodie Jacquet		 $700.00 0 Join Waitlist
Online - We plan to offer this course in March 2022. We will open for registration once the schedule is finalized. TBA $700.00 12 -

Feb 2021 course schedule: This course is offered via online-supported delivery.
Feb 16 – Access opens for pre-readings and assignments.
Feb 23, 25, 27 – Virtual classes from 9 am to 4:30 pm PT.
March 6 – Final assignment due. 

Fall 2021/Spring 2022 schedule: This course is offered via online-supported delivery.
• Access opens one week before the first date listed for pre-readings and assignments.
• Virtual classes run from 9 am to 4:30 pm PT.
• Final assignment due one week after last date listed. 

What will I learn?

By the end of this course, you will be able to do the following:

  • Ensure all participants understand the history and roots of facilitation practices and how they are used to support group participation, dialogue and problem-solving in a variety of communities
  • Identify various styles of facilitation and clarify the core values that inform these styles
  • Develop skills and practices to address issues related to power, privilege and social equity effectively
  • Assemble a basic, comprehensive framework of process design, facilitation concepts and models to inform engagement with groups
  • Experiment with the application of facilitation tools and approaches through exercises, simulations and case studies

How will I learn?

  • Pre-readings and assignments
  • Exercises
  • Mini-lectures
  • Group discussion
  • Individual and group exercises
  • Role playing

Who should take this course?

This course is open to anyone who would like to learn more about facilitation and principles and concepts of dialogue and civic engagement. It is suitable for learners who do not have previous experience with facilitation, dialogue, or civic or community engagement.

How will I be evaluated?

We will evaluate you based on your class participation and assignments.

Textbooks and learning materials

We will provide custom course materials.

Hardware and software requirements

You will need a computer that is connected to the internet so that you can access Canvas, our online course management system. You can check if your browser is compatible with Canvas by accessing Canvas guides here. We recommend you use Google Chrome or Firefox.

Also, you will need to enable your computer’s audio and microphone to participate in live sessions offered through the Blackboard Collaborate virtual platform (within Canvas). You can check if your computer is compatible with Blackboard Collaborate here.

You can find more information on online-supported learning on our About Online Learning page. 

Hear more about this course

"Meetings of one sort or another are at the very heart of civic engagement and dialogue. Unfortunately, a lot of those meetings are not very productive—and sometimes downright frustrating. Facilitation is...a role of service that supports group behaviour and helps groups function at their absolute best." —Julian Griggs

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