Session I

Topic: History and Background

Introduction: The World Café began in 1995. It combined great conversation and breakthrough thinking. Since then, hundreds of groups have used the process. International use is a big part of it now too. The World Café has caught on as a model for dialogue for business groups and non profit, education and health care. Here in Alberta , the World Café is being used at the university. It is also used in the inner city by non profit groups such as Action for Healthy Communities. The purpose of the World Café dialogue is to increase involvement in community and global issues. For supplemental reading, see Resources.

Objectives : By the end of this session, you will:

• Learn the basics of World Café dialogue
• Learn how to start a workshop

  
  Notes for Animators: Planning for a Group

Introduce yourself: I am Anita Animator. I have been to World Café training and the dialogues put on by Action for Healthy Communities. I invited you here to talk about what's on your mind in your community.

What's your name? Why are you here?

(Balloons for typing personal response)

Community members introduce themselves. Then talking in pairs chat about one issue of concern.

Group Expectations: As a large group generate a list of expectations. Every person should give something they wish to gain from the workshop sessions.

Journal Question: What is the purpose of World Café? Why use it in your community?

Materials needed: flip charts & stands, paper table cloths, colorful markers, pens, table decorations. Coffee, snacks. Lunch. Create a fun, relaxing atmosphere. See Pictures

Reflection: Today we have given some background on the World Café method. We also got to meet each other. Please give feedback on what worked and what did not.

Next Session : Conversation