3. Co-Facilitator

The Role of the Co-Facilitator

We are still refining this role. Here are the basic tasks.

Learning to Become a Facilitator

Part of the role of co-facilitator is to be learning to become a facilitator of Empathy Circle. We are training people to become Empathy Circle facilitators by taking part in them.

1. Generally the co-facilitator will have been a participant in several Empathy Circles.

2. They then co-facilitate a few Empathy Circles.

3. Then facilitate a circle with the support of an experienced facilitator who acts as a co-facilitator.

4. Then they can facilitate with a co-facilitator.

5. Facilitator Meetings. We will be setting up facilitator regulars meetings for mutual support in being a facilitator. To discuss; questions, the process, experiences, successes, challenges, etc.

Keep Time

Usually we start with 3 minutes per speaker per speaking turn. The co-facilitator tracks the time and holds up a sign at the 3 minute mark (or whatever amount of time that was decided on).

Take Transcripts

Take notes into a shared google doc of what is being said. We want to have an outline of what has been said in the empathy circle. Write up what people are saying as we go along into the meeting google doc. We do not need to write out the reflection. We will post this along with the video.

Note Ideas and Questions

• Take notes about facilitation questions and comments to discuss later in a facilitators meeting.

• Take notes on how to improve the process.

Stand-in if Someone Doesn't Attend

Sometimes a participant may not show up. The co-facilitator could then take a more active role so that that are at least four participants.

Take Part in Dialogue

Everyone is part of the empathy circle. Participants may select to speak to the co-facilitator is they wish.