Elements and Performance Criteria
- Establish group objectives and processes
- The focus of the group process is researched, in consultation with the client and other stakeholders, where applicable and group participants are identified
- Group input is initiated, confirming objectives
- Group process techniques, activities and timelines are planned
- Group purpose, processes, expectations and roles of members are discussed, negotiated and agreed to by the group as a whole
- Resource requirements are identified and arranged
- Recording processes are discussed and agreed by the group and confirmed with the client, where applicable
- Appropriate evaluation methods are agreed upon and incorporated into the process to ensure group and client needs are met, where applicable
- Manage facilitation
- Issues/ideas/perspectives of group members are elicited using identified group process techniques that accurately reflect group member needs
- Appropriate facilitation skills are used to explore issues/ideas/perspectives in a supportive environment that encourages participation and productive contributions from all group members
- All interactions with group members reflect sensitivity to social and cultural differences and any individual needs
- Information is provided which is designed to develop, extend and challenge group perspectives and frames of reference
- Group members' knowledge, expertise and skills are acknowledged and utilised
- Opportunities for group members to contribute additional information, learn from each other and develop knowledge/skills are provided
- Group dynamics are monitored to maintain focus and direction, continuity, engagement, participation and timelines
- Develop group outcomes
- Proposed outcomes are sought from group members
- Proposed outcomes are noted/documented for group to discuss and further develop
- Facilitation skills are used to draw a collective and agreed outcome which responds to individual needs/perspectives
- Outcomes are documented in accordance with agreed client/organisational and group requirements
- Proposed actions arising from agreed outcomes are raised with the group and appropriate steps are taken to initiate these, where appropriate
- Finalise group process
- Feedback and reflection are used to identify and implement improvements to future practice in group processes
- Evaluation methods are selected and used to identify effectiveness of group process
- Stakeholders and clients are briefed, if relevant, on issues, developments and outcomes arising from group process
- Records and reports of process and outcomes are documented, distributed and stored in accordance with established reporting requirements of client/organisation