Preparation Notes
Beginning
Our theme is summed up by "In diversity, there is beauty and strength". We'll then
discuss what we can learn from American history, especially about handling differences.
Harland Cleveland, a distinguished politician and teacher, died in 2008, yet his beliefs about
diversity continue to shape our thinking. Today, we'll discuss his work, particularly his views
about how Hawaii, the most diverse state in the US, may be used to address diversity. Let's
discuss this fascinating topic. I appreciate everyone's preparation and look forward to your
thoughts. You are welcome to join us in exploring concepts as a group, and your participation
is essential for a dynamic discussion.
Closing
As our lecture concludes, let's reflect on Hawaii's diversity management lessons.
We've covered some key aspects, and Hawaii's rich history and culture can teach us a lot.
Each of you has contributed something useful, so please keep discussing about these subjects
beyond this session. Before we finish, please share one thing you learnt or thought about
from our talk. It could be a new perspective, a persistent query, or a shared perspective.
[Participant 1], would you like to start?
[Allow participant to share]
Thank you, [Participant 1]. Now, [Participant 2], your thoughts?
[Continue until each participant has shared]
I enjoy how detailed our conversation was today. Your suggestions are valuable and
demonstrate the importance of discussing diversity in all its manifestations. These exchanges
are useful and make society more welcoming. Many thanks for participating and thinking
about this. We should keep recognizing variety as beautiful and powerful on our journey.
2. Prepared Open-ended Discussion Prompts/Questions
1. How can Hawaii, as the most diverse state, serve as a practical model for managing
diversity in various settings?
- Encourage participants to draw parallels with their experiences.
2. In what ways do diverse voices contribute to creating a richer and more inclusive
society?
- Prompt participants to explore both personal and societal dimensions.
3. Can you share a personal experience where exposure to diverse perspectives
significantly changed your viewpoint?
- Encourage storytelling to make the discussion more relatable.
4. How might the lessons from Hawaii's experience be applied to foster diversity in
educational institutions or workplaces?
- Encourage practical thinking and potential application of lessons.
5. What challenges do you foresee in implementing strategies to manage diversity,
and how can they be overcome?
- Prompt participants to think critically about potential obstacles and solutions.
3. Facilitating group participation
Encouraging Quiet Members
It's essential to make sure everyone's voice is heard in our discussion. [Participant 1],
I'd like to hear your perspective on the topic. What are your thoughts?
Thank you, [Participant 1]. That was a valuable insight. Now, [Participant 2], how
about you? Any thoughts on what we've discussed so far?
Remember, your unique viewpoints contribute immensely to our collective
understanding. If you haven't spoken yet, please feel free to jump in at any point. I'd love to
hear your thoughts, [Participant 3].
Managing Discussion Monopolizers
Like how energetic and smart [Name] is with us. Your opinion matters. I also want to
hear from others. Thanks, [Name], for giving your perspective. Indeed, it matters. Let others
speak now. Does anyone else want to comment on this or another topic? I value your
opinions and want everyone to voice them. Please add your thoughts after we've heard from
others, [Name].
Addressing Rabbit Holes
I like your excitement on that interesting issue, [Name]. It warrants additional
investigation. Let's start with the primary topic. We can discuss this intriguing side subject.
Nice of you, [Name], to mention that. It's worth discussing alone. We should bookmark the
website for when we have more time to discuss the key idea. Who else wants to discuss the
topic? Remember that we want a full conversation. I'm delighted to discuss our topic's many
facets today.
4. Using group comments to further discussion
Acknowledging and Expanding
Thanks, [Name], for giving your perspective. Our chat becomes more fascinating.
Add to it immediately. Could someone elaborate or disagree with [Name]?
Good, [Participant 1]. I see you nodding. Do you have more to say or a different
perspective?
Participant 1 makes a good point. [Name] summarized the important points, while
[Participant 1] contributed [highlighting Participant 1's input]. Anyone else want to comment
on this conversation?
I enjoy how the talk is going and how diverse perspectives are connected. Person 2,
you haven't commented. Does [Name]'s perspective differ from yours?
Thanks, [Participant 2], for expanding our conversation. Our discourse is rich because
our thoughts bounce off each other. Let's keep reacting to each other to make our exploration
of other perspectives more fluid and collaborative.
5. Transitions and handling that “awkward silence”
Handling Silence:
Silence can be just as strong as words sometimes. Let's calm down for a moment. You
can take a moment to gather your thoughts if you're still thinking about what to say or if you
haven't had a chance to talk yet. We can think when we're quiet, and your thoughts are
helpful. Don't forget that this is a safe place and that you don't need to hurry. Let me know
when you're ready. Anyone who wants to speak up is welcome to do so.
Rekindling the Fire
We'll switch topics now. Your thoughts on the new non-direct question? I'm excited to
hear your opinions on this new perspective. Before we begin, let me offer a fun fact or tale
about our topic. Inform us about anything fascinating. You added something new to our
conversation that may pique our curiosity. You can contribute to this fact or anecdote or
comment on the new question. Keep the discourse vibrant and entertaining.
6. Communication or group facilitation skills
1. Active Listening
"I'm hearing that thing." Was that recorded correctly?" I appreciate your clarification,
[Name]. Your opinion matters, and agreeing helps us understand. Please add to [Name]'s
point or offer your own. Everyone, please practice active attention. If you have questions or
need more information after someone speaks, ask. This ensures everyone participates in the
discussion.
2. Conflict Resolution
"It's okay to have different ideas." We can all agree where?" I like how our
conversation is diverse. [Name] and [Name] seem to disagree. This needs further
investigation. Does there exist a compromise that would satisfy both sides? We want to
understand differences and create strategies to deal with them, not eliminate them. Share your
ideas for uniting diverse group members.
3. Inclusive Language
"Let's be careful to use language that includes everyone." Could we rephrase that so
everyone feels heard?" Thanks, [Name], for telling me. I wish to emphasize the importance of
welcoming language. "Rephrase the statement in a way that includes everyone." This helps
everyone feel heard. We must discuss respect when we speak. Please report any words that
may exclude or devalue someone. Let's make sure our communication reflects the diversity
and openness we want in our discussion.
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