Conversation Map Training

Conversation Maps

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Conversation Maps Process

A Conversation Map educational session utilizes several components to support the learning process. They include:

  1. The Conversation Map Visual—The Map visual (or simply "Map") creates a common mental model or picture for all participants to learn from and discuss. It is a 3-foot by 5-foot colorful picture or metaphor that the group will focus on and navigate during the session.

  2. The Conversation Questions—The conversation questions are read by you and serve as the instructions for the Map session. While the conversation questions have been focus-group tested to ensure that certain learning goals are achieved, they are intended to be flexible so all types of groups can navigate the process and benefit from it. The conversation questions prompt the participants to discuss a variety of topics at various points throughout the session.

  3. The Discussion Cards—Discussion cards are used to bring additional information and engagement to the sessions. They have a gamelike feel and help engage participants in the learning process.

  4. The Group (participants)—Conversation Maps are designed to be used with groups of 3 to 10 participants. This group size provides enough participants to learn from one another but not too many that it becomes a real challenge to facilitate. Everyone should be able to learn from the process and participate in the learning and the doing.

  5. The Facilitator—Your role as the facilitator is not like that of a typical lecturer or teacher. In the Conversation Map process, you use the structured materials to guide the group conversation and engage participants in a process of exploration and learning.

    These sessions may feel different than other learning or teaching sessions you have led or attended in the past. They are designed to be fun, interactive, engaging, and full of learning no matter who participates. Your role is to create a nonthreatening environment in which participants can learn from the materials presented, from one another, and from you.

  6. Action Plan—An important aspect of the Conversation Map process is providing participants with a process by which they can plan changes in their decision making and behaviors. In some cases the action plan is robust, whereas in other cases it provides a starting point for participants with which to experiment.