The essential, bestselling guide to designing and leading useful and effective group conversations, now completely revised and updated.

The Art of Focused Conversation is the quintessential theoretical and practical guide to group communication and participatory decision-making. Incorporating over 60 years of meticulous research and collaborative development, this perennial, international bestseller is an indispensable addition to any facilitator's toolkit.

The Focused Conversation Method at the heart of The Art of Focused Conversation is a core component of the Technology of Participation (ToP) methodology developed by the Institute of Cultural Affairs. The original book is widely regarded as a key resource for designing and leading useful and effective conversations and fostering consensus and collaboration. This fully updated and revised edition includes:

• Preparation and guidelines for discussing challenging topics and facilitating a focused conversation
• A comprehensive overview of the ORID framework, made up of Objective, Reflective, Interpretive, and Decisional questions which guide a group to wise decisions
• In-depth analysis of how the underlying structure of ToP is based on applied phenomenology and is supported by the latest findings in neuroscience and social psychology
• New sections on diversity, equity, and inclusion; work-life balance; conflict resolution; and guiding focused conversations online
• 125 sample conversations that can be adapted to any situation.

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.

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.

R. Brian Stanfield's profile page

Jo Nelson worked with the Institute of Cultural Affairs for 50 years, leading participatory development projects and designing and teaching ToP facilitator training programs. She 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 Getting to the Bottom of ToP.

Jo Nelson's profile page