Description:
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.
Brief description:
R. Brian Stanfield was an educator, researcher, and Director of Publications at the Canadian Institute of Cultural Affairs. Editor of the first edition of The Art of Focused Conversation and The Workshop Book and author of The Courage to Lead, Brian made a lasting contribution to the use of participatory practices in facilitation. He died in 2006.
Review Quotes:
Lead a conversation that is focused, intentional, inclusive, and productive
--Martin Gilbraith, IAF Certified Professional Facilitator / Master, ICA Certified ToP Facilitator, Past Chair and board member, International Association of Facilitators
The gold standard in facilitation methods. I have used it in business for a quarter century.
--David G. Patterson, former 30-year CEO of Northwater Capital Management Inc., and founder and chair, Common Earth
This is a transformative guide for anyone dedicated to mastering impactful conversations.
--Manal Sayid, Lead Facilitator, Sayid Consulting; Regional Director, North America, International Association of Facilitators (IAF); and Board Member, Technology of Participation Network (ToP Network)
Jump-start your ability to apply this method and create conversations that matter.
--Harold Sahkoskwaientha Tarbell (Akwesasne Mohawk), ICAA Board Member, Tarbell Facilitation Network
A great addition to any facilitator's resource library.
--T. Duncan Holmes, certified ToP facilitator (CTF) and ToP trainer, and past Director, ICA Canada
Expanded by over one hundred pages, this edition offers state-of-the-art theoretical and practical knowledge on effective conversations.
--Robertson Work, nonfiction author and social/ecological activist, former UNDP principal policy advisor, NYU Wagner professor, and ICA executive director in four countries
I highly recommend this book to anyone who regularly engages with children, youth, or adults and would like to find ways to take conversations to a deeper level with empathy and thoughtfulness.
--Jennifer Chin, visual artist and educator