Instructional Goal: discuss topics of importance to group members
Print: Open Space Directions
This protocol was adapted from the National School Reform web site. http://www.nsrfharmony.org/protocol/open_space_tech.html
Strengths
- Topics for discussion are generated and managed by students
- Students are responsible for their own learning and engagement
- Teacher can participate as a leaner and observer with students
Note: Pre-requisite knowledge and skills: Students must be able to manage a conversation independently. Norms for productive conversations must be established prior to using Open Space Technology.
Directions:
- Explain to the group the principles of Open Space Technology.
- Brainstorm a list of potential topics that the group would like to discuss.
- Select topics and designate the location for each conversation.
- Provide chart paper/markers or a computer so that notes from the conversation can be recorded and shared as new people join the group.
Principles:
- Whoever comes are the right people.
- Whatever happens is the only thing that could have.
- Whenever it starts is the right time to start.
- It’s over when it’s over.
* The Law of Responsibility and Mobility
If you feel you are neither learning from nor contributing to a discussion, or if you feel a strong pull to another conversation or topic, you are required to get up and move to another discussion, without waiting for the group to complete the conversation.