Training

While many studies confirm the value of diversity to organizations, diversity often means the presence of contrasting points of view which can lead to conflict. Conflicts are typically feared because we don’t know what to do with them. Yet, the longer we go without addressing rising conflict, the more stuck we become. This course is about working with differences and conflict in the workplace and is based on the groundbreaking Lewis method of Deep Democracy, a psychologically based facilitation methodology oriented towards an appreciation of differences and diversity. This course teaches the participant how to skillfully harness contrasting points of view and use them as a catalyst for learning and growth. It includes a series of practical, straightforward methodologies that support effective meetings and decision-making. This course utilizes a combination of instruction, reflection, small group dialogue, and both between-class and during-class practice exercises.

Foundational elements of this course include systems thinking, complexity theory, process-oriented psychology, and different dialogic methodologies and practices.

This course is for anyone interested in personal growth, professional development, and taking their leadership to the next level. It works well for mixed cohorts of supervisors, middlemanagers, senior managers, and top executives. However, for the highest impact, it is best to have only supervisors and middle managers with other supervisors and middle managers, or only senior managers with other senior managers, etc.

Friction to Function: Intro PDF

Friction to Function: Full Course PDF