DLC Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a facilitated DLC last? What if discussion seems complete in 20 minutes?

While there is no specific time limit for an effective deliberative conversation, pilot testing of thorough and clear explorations of a topic of interest from various perspectives is usually between 60 and 90 minutes. If you find the group seems to have found a “stopping point” after only a few minutes, it is likely that there are other important topics that have not yet been considered. Use lulls in conversation as opportunities to expand into a new topic that may generate fruitful insights using some of the questions provided in this facilitator guide. Try some of the questions or prompts above.

Does DLC have to be in-person? What about online?

Though online options may afford flexibility or even a sense of detached anonymity which may be good for facilitating a DLC, there is something important about being co-present with other people in a group setting. We recommend prioritizing in-person methods for DLCs wherever possible; use virtual methods only as a last resort. In cases where online discussions are the only option, encourage everyone to keep their cameras on and have a working microphone, and set a protocol for encouraging every voice to be heard.

Can I facilitate a deliberative conversation for a group that I lead?

The purpose of deliberative conversations is to level the playing field for an open, honest, and candid discussion on an important topic, allowing for all members of the group to participate equally. When a group leader — even a well-meaning, skilled one — attempts to facilitate their own group’s conversation, an established power dynamic is likely to carry over into the conversation in a way that may substantively alter what is said and the process which is followed. For this reason, we recommend that groups always use an external facilitator for DLC and, as appropriate, limit (but do not completely eliminate) your own personal involvement and participation in such conversations. As in all things, use your best judgment — and realize that the power dynamic is important to acknowledge and avoid.

Is there a particular “style” I should use as a facilitator that is most effective? Should I be fun, serious, energetic, reserved, etc.?

Is there a particular "style" I should use as a facilitator that is most effective? Should I be fun, serious, energetic, reserved, etc.?

Everyone facilitates differently and has their own sense of style, and trying to copy anyone else’s is probably not as helpful in practice as it might seem in theory. There are certainly principles that good facilitators have in common — curious, inclusive, intuitive, strong communicators, able to adapt quickly— and these principles are always differently filtered through the person using them. Whatever kind of person you are — a jokester, an analytic, a people-person, a straight-to-business type — you can become more effective as you incorporate these principles and find a style that works for you.

Are there other resources I can use?

There are many! The References list contains several very helpful sources you can draw from, and you will find many other such resources online and in the broader literatures and professional fields which use facilitation. Visual facilitators, conflict resolution experts, higher education teachers, or other fields may have valuable insights to help you improve. We also have many resources available on DLC Research.