A 9-Step Guide to making the most of the break-out sessions!
Many of the most highly rated sessions at past NEXUS Summits have used a format that we call “Expert-Led Conversations.” They encourage and facilitate interactive group dialogue. We want Breakout Sessions that foster the kinds of meaningful discussions that are normal for hallways and dinner tables. We want people to leave sessions with new information and new perspectives, but also new friends. To this end, we recommend the following structure for Breakout Sessions at NEXUS events:
1) WHY: The Moderator opens the session by asking 4 or 5 people in the room to answer (popcorn style), “Why did you come to this session or what do you hope to learn, or discuss?” (4 Minutes)
2) SKILL LEVEL: If applicable, the Moderator next asks for a show of hands to demonstrate levels of expertise. “Raise your hand if this is your first conversation about “Topic X.” Now, raise your hand if you’re moderately familiar with the topic? And, if you are an expert?” (1 Minute)
3) FRAMING: The Moderator frames the topic for 1-2 minutes, introduces him or herself, then introduces each of the other speakers. (2 Minutes)
4) SPEAKER 1 & QUESTIONS: The first speaker presents for 5 to 7 minutes followed by 2-3 questions. (10-12 Minutes)
Presenters should conclude their remarks with particular ideas or suggestions that they would like to hear/learn from the group (eg. citing private sector or NGO models that people can reference; recommending partnerships to explore; suggesting strategies for how to engage millennials in the topic; describing sticking points or stumbling blocks to overcome, etc.)
5) SPEAKER 2 & QUESTIONS: The second speaker presents for 5 to 7 minutes followed by 2-3 questions. (10-12 Minutes)
(Please note: If the session has more than 3 speakers, presentation times should be shortened.)
6) DISCUSSION: The process leaves 30+ minutes for the moderator to facilitate questions, discussion, and conclusion.
7) NEXT STEPS: In the last few minutes, the moderator asks the speakers to share:
– 1 or 2 key take-aways they received from the group discussion
– 1 or 2 items they want the group to think about on an ongoing basis
– Instructions for how to stay in touch
8) GRATITUDE: In conclusion, the Moderator thanks the group and summarizes the themes that were discussed. Where appropriate, the Moderator also asks if the group wishes to have an email list or facebook group to continue the conversation.
