A fishbowl conversation is a form of dialog that can be used when discussing topics within large groups. Fishbowl conversations are sometimes also used in participatory events such as unconferences. The advantage of fishbowl is that it allows the entire group to participate in a conversation. Several people can join the discussion.
How does it work?
Four to five chairs are arranged in an inner circle. This is the fishbowl. The remaining chairs are arranged in concentric circles outside the fishbowl. A few participants are selected to fill the fishbowl, while the rest of the group sit on the chairs outside the fishbowl. In an open fishbowl, one chair is left empty. In a closed fishbowl, all chairs are filled. The moderator introduces the topic and the participants start discussing the topic. The audience outside the fishbowl listen in on the discussion.
In an open fishbowl, any member of the audience can, at any time, occupy the empty chair and join the fishbowl. When this happens, an existing member of the fishbowl must voluntarily leave the fishbowl and free a chair. The discussion continues with participants frequently entering and leaving the fishbowl. Depending on how large your audience is you can have many audience members spend some time in the fishbowl and take part in the discussion. When time runs out, the fishbowl is closed and the moderator summarizes the discussion.
References: Taddeo, Jan E. (June 9, 2006). “A Unitarian Universalist Approach to Youth Ministry”. uua.org. Retrieved 25 February 2010.
*adapted from wikipedia.com – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fishbowl_(conversation)
CppEurope Conference, 4th Edition, online event
Following our belief that #LearningNeverStops, we continue our sequence of online conferences by organizing the 4th edition of CppEurope on 23rd of June.
As firm believers in continuous improvement, we are taking steps in overcoming the barriers that could restrict the learning process in this period. We plan to do this by going online and bringing you international speakers and top-notch practitioners in the comfort of your own office or home.
Ask the Speakers
Ask the speakers is a concept meant to break the barriers of classical learning sessions. It’s a moment when participants can have a direct conversation with the speakers of their choice, asking the questions they have, without the pressure of speaking up in front of the whole audience.