Fish Bowls
Fish Bowls foster engaging discussions on climate resilience, accommodating up to 50 participants. With an inner circle of experts and an outer circle for the audience, this method promotes diverse perspectives and informed dialogue. Experts initiate the discussion, addressing key questions related to climate challenges, while audience members contribute questions, comments, and insights. Optional rotations allow for dynamic participation, ensuring a rich exchange of ideas. By encouraging respectful interaction and active engagement, Fish Bowls facilitate meaningful conversations that inspire reflection and action on climate resilience issues.
Steps:
Setup:
Arrange chairs in two concentric circles. The inner circle hosts 3-5 chairs for the experts or key speakers, and the outer circle is for the rest of the participants.
Introduce the method and the topic to be discussed, ensuring all participants understand the format and purpose of the session.
Initiating Discussion:
The facilitator poses an initial question or topic related to climate resilience, such as the impact of climate change on local communities or strategies for sustainable urban planning.
Experts in the inner circle begin the discussion, sharing their insights and perspectives on the topic.
Audience Engagement:
After a predetermined time, the facilitator invites questions or comments from the participants in the outer circle.
Audience members can ask questions directly to the experts, offer their thoughts, or seek clarification on points discussed.
Rotation (Optional):
To keep the discussion dynamic and inclusive, consider rotating one or more experts out of the inner circle, allowing other participants to join in and contribute as new experts.
This rotation can be based on audience interest or prearranged to ensure diverse perspectives are highlighted.
Conclusion:
The facilitator summarizes the main points discussed and any consensus or differing opinions that emerged.
Provide a closing remark that encourages further reflection and action based on the discussion.
Duration:
Approximately 45-60 minutes
Group Size:
Suitable for up to 50 participants, with an inner circle of 3-5 experts or conversation leads
Materials/Resources Needed:
Chairs arranged in two concentric circles: an inner circle for the speakers and an outer circle for the audience
A microphone for the facilitator and for audience questions if the group is large
Accessibility Considerations:
Ensure that the seating arrangement is accessible for all participants, including those with mobility aids.
Provide hearing assistance devices if necessary.
Tips/Pointers:
Encourage respectful listening and engagement, reminding participants of the ground rules for discussion.
Use a timer to manage each segment of the discussion, ensuring that the session moves smoothly and all topics receive adequate attention.
Works well for Facilitating in-depth discussion on contentious or complex topics with input from experts and community members.
Variations of the fishbowl method can include "open fishbowl" where audience members can take turns entering the inner circle to participate directly. This can enhance interaction and ensure broader involvement.