The Art of Focused Conversation is the comprehensive, best-selling, practical guide to group communication and participatory decision-making. Based on over 60 years of meticulous research and proven science, this fully updated and revised edition includes 125 sample conversations that can be adapted to any situation.
The essential bestselling guide to designing and leading useful and effective group conversations, now completely revised and updated
Integrating over 60 years of research and development, this essential guide to group communication and participatory decision-making is an international bestseller.
The Art of Focused Conversation, a core component of the Technology of Participation (ToP) methodology by The Institute of Cultural Affairs, is vital for facilitators aiming to lead effective conversations and foster collaboration. The fully updated and revised edition includes:
Invigorate and elevate your group process with this invaluable resource— required reading for facilitators, leaders, educators, and anyone who wants to think clearly and guide thoughtful conversations.
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R. Brian Stanfield was an inspired leader, who spent years helping others to become the same. As well as his decades of experience as an educator and researcher, he held the position of Director of Publications at the Canadian Institute of Cultural Affairs for many years. Brian was the author of 5 books focusing on the qualities required for successful progressive leadership and group facilitation, including The Workshop Book, The Art of Focused Conversation and The Courage to Lead.
Jo Nelson is a Certified ToP Facilitator, a founding member of the International Association of Facilitators (IAF), and an IAF Certified Professional Facilitator Emeritus. She worked globally with the Institute of Cultural Affairs (ICA) for 50 years, facilitating participatory development projects in many countries, and designing and teaching all of ICA Canada’s ToP facilitator training programs. She has used and refined the Focused Conversation Method since its inception, was a contributor to the first edition of The Art of Focused Conversation, and is author of The Art of Focused Conversation for Schools and co-author of Getting to the Bottom of ToP: Foundations of the Methodologies of the Technology of Participation. Jo has received several awards for her contributions to the field of facilitation, and has been inducted into the IAF Hall of Fame. Jo Nelson lives in Toronto, Canada.
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