Conversation Cafe is an informal dialogue method which invites people to take part in discussions about topical issues in an informal setting.
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