Facilitating Groups: World Café

Steps for World Café

• Setting: Create a special environment, most often modeled after a café, for participants. If possible, have round tables with four to five people at each table.
• Welcome/Introductions: The host begins with a warm welcome and an introduction of the Café process, setting the context, sharing Café etiquette and putting participants at ease.
• Small group rounds: The process begins with the first of three, or more, rounds of conversation for the group seated at each table. At the end of the 10- to 15-minute conversation, each group member moves to a different table. One person stays behind to share what was said in their discussion with the new group members.
• Questions: Each round is prefaced with a question crafted for the specific context and purpose of the Café. The same question can be used for all three rounds, or you can have three different questions, one for each round.
• Harvest: After the small group discussions are done, individuals are invited to share insights from their conversations with the large group. The results can be shared with a picture, story, etc.

Supplies Needed

• Round table for four to five people each (rectangular tables will do; however, round tables are preferable)
• Flipchart paper or paper placemats and markers for tables
• Refreshments and snacks on a side table
• Sound system for Café host
  (if needed)
• Optional: flowers on tables, mug or wineglass for markers on table
• Background music

Reference: https://theworldcafe.com/key-concepts-resources/world-cafe-method/