The Dialogue Handbook

Objective To define and delimit dialogue as a concept, and to show its multi-faceted and complex nature.

To enable participants to feel part of the process of defining and refining the concept of dialogue.

Step By Step Introduce the exercise with a brainstorming session, in which the facilitator asks participants to say the first word that springs to mind when she says: dialogue! (the word is written on the flipchart or blackboard).

All words spoken by participants are written down on the flipchart or the blackboard under the headline ‘Dialogue’.

Depending on the words spoken, you reflect on the meaning together with participants. For example, the words can be divided into categories that refer to the nature of dialogue (basic values, frame of mind and practice), principles of dialogue and difference between dialogue and discussion. It depends on what feels relevant in the situation. After that, you write down a definition on the flipchart, for example, the one presented in this book: Dialogue is a special form of communication, in which participants seek to actively create greater mutual understanding and deeper insight.

You elaborate on the definition, word by word, e.g. along the lines of the explanations in Chapter 1. Use examples that match the group and remember to refer to the suggestions and words chosen throughout the process. You might use a table to compare dialogue to constructive and destructive discussion (see Annex 1).

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