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FACILITATION What is it, and how does it work?
How does it differ from mediation?
When would I use it?
How can it benefit me?
Resolution meetings under IDEIA
Facilitated IEP meetings
Testimonial
What is it, and how does it work?
Facilitation is a process in which an independent and impartial expert assists a group to clarify and meet its objectives. Facilitation can be a one-time intervention or an ongoing process, depending on the needs and interests of the group.How does it differ from mediation?
Facilitation is a tool for focusing on the objectives and challenges of the group, rather than on specific dispute resolution as such. It can be used when a conflict is not clearly defined, when the disputing parties within a group are not clearly identified, or when there is no dispute at all.When would I use it?
Facilitation can be used whenever a group wants to improve team effectiveness and/or prevent future conflicts. It can help a group clarify its mission and purpose, its marketing plan, its policies, and its conflict-resolution procedures. If conflicts have developed, facilitation can be used to help the group clarify its concerns and objectives, formulate a plan of action, and recommit to a shared vision.
- How can it benefit me?
When team spirit and productivity are diminished by undercurrents of dissatisfaction and tension, facilitation can help the group "clear the air," refocus, and revitalize. The benefits will be increased productivity, improved working relationships, and greater job satisfaction.Resolution meetings under IDEIA
The reauthorization of IDEA in 2004 included a change in name to IDEIA (Individuals with Disabilities Improvement Act). Other changes include a requirement that those seeking a due process hearing must first attend a "resolution meeting." The intent of the law is that there be an opportunity for early and cost-effective settlement of the conflict by mutual agreement. Although there is no requirement of facilitation, it can be an extremely helpful option to have the assistance of a trained facilitator to assure the greatest likelihood of success and thus reduce the potential costs of lost time, delayed services, bad feelings, and legal expenses. For more information about the resolution meetings now required under IDEIA, click here.Facilitated IEP meetings
A very successful program has by now been established in many but not all states that provides the option of having a trained facilitator in attendance at a regularly scheduled IEP (individualized education plan) meeting. The purpose is to have a neutral and unbiased professional present to support the collaboration of the IEP team and assure them a greater probability of communicating effectively, collaborating well, and reaching agreement for the benefit of the student. For a sample description, click here for English o haga clic aquí para la misma página en español.
This is the subject of Nicholas Martin´s most recent book, entitled, Supporting the IEP Process, a Facilitator´s Guide. For more information about this book, please visit our publications page or click here. Nick Martin is at times called upon to personally facilitate IEP meetings in the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area. Training in facilitation and program consultation in the design of facilitation programs are also services of the Center for Accord. For a description of the facilitation training provided, please click here.
- Testimonial
- It was our pleasure to have Nick Martin facilitate two staff meetings with the objective of improving teamwork and work ethic. We were very pleased with the outcome.
- Nick’s ability to communicate with both management and staff was extremely helpful in overcoming a lack of good communication. His technique brings out beliefs on both sides which would normally be under the surface, but need to be addressed to bring about the teamwork we desired.
- The follow-up was also impressive. Nick sent me a summary of both sessions which gave us a road map for the future. The importance of this cannot be overstated because if there’s talk and no action the objectives will not be reached.
- I would highly recommend Nick Martin as a facilitator and mediator.
Gary Capps, Executive Director [retired]
Bend Chamber of Commerce
