Workshop norms

Use these group norms for workshop etiquette to help promote learning for all participants, and to emphasize the collective responsibility of facilitators and participants to create a positive learning environment. These group norms are best introduced during the opening of the workshop.

Guidelines:

Begin by explaining why workshop etiquette is important, emphasizing that all members of the workshop, not only the facilitator, are responsible for holding each other accountable to these guidelines.

You can set a number of group norms yourself (e.g., “turn cell phones off”), or you can provide a list of group norms as a starting point for discussion and direct the group to co-create their own group norms:

• Give participants 2-5 minutes to reflect on guiding questions, such as:

  • Which group norms would you like to keep? Why?

  • Which group norms would you change? Why?

  • Which group norms, if any, would you like to add? Why?
• Break up participants into pairs, or groups of three or four. Give each group sticky notes or cue cards and ask them to develop a revised set of group norms. Allot a specific amount of time for this activity (e.g., 5 minutes).
• Collect the sticky notes/cue cards of each group, or take suggestions verbally and write them on the board. Consolidate all responses and form a mutually agreed upon set of group norms. If you are meeting with a group more than once, you may choose to collect the responses and synthesize them on your own for discussion during the next session.

Whichever approach you use, frequently refer back to the group norms and make sure they are visible to participants. Consider that you may need to revisit group norms if they are not working for the group.

Sample Workshop Etiquette:

“This is a living document and may be altered to fit the needs of all participants. All members of this workshop, including the facilitators, are expected to uphold the following group norms, which have been discussed and agreed upon by the group:

1. Treat each other with respect.
2. Everyone has the responsibility to contribute to discussion in the form they feel most comfortable (e.g., written or spoken).
3. Listen carefully while another person is speaking.
4. Respect all members’ right to speak and share their thoughts – one member should not dominate discussion.
5. Direct arguments toward opinions and ideas, not the individual stating them.
6. Participants can ask questions at any time following a raised hand.
7. Begin on time and end on time.
8. Everyone may take a moment to step out of the room discreetly without explanation at any time.
9. Cellphones should only be used outside of the room in emergency situations.”

What if someone doesn’t follow the group norms?

Ideally, all participants will feel comfortable holding the group accountable. If you notice that someone is not following the group norms, you might simply remind them of the group norms set out by the group. If you don’t feel comfortable addressing the participant during the workshop, you might ask them to speak with you after the workshop.

For more information about situations that may arise during your workshop, check out Navigate Typical Challenges.