Open Space

Open Space is based on the belief that people are, at any one time, both teachers and learners and that sometimes the best learning at conferences takes place through informal networking and conversations.

Open Space is an opportunity for participants to set the agenda by raising topics or questions that they would like to see discussed. Once a list of topics is agreed upon, the large group will break into smaller discussion groups, based on topic and interest. Everyone will make their own decisions about where they want to go and once there, the small group is responsible for leading the discussion and recording notes. In open space, the ‘law of two feet' prevails. In other words, if you are in a place where you can’t learn or contribute, you can move to another place where you can.

On the first evening of the conference (October 17th), over 100 delegates came together to discuss the issues of most significance to their coalitions. Nine topic areas were generated by the delegates. Everyone then moved to the topics of most interest to them to take part in a self generated group discussion. Recorders were available at all tables. The discussion notes below were compiled out of these Open Space small group discussions.

Topics Discussed:

LAST REVIEWED: Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Shawna from Leduc Community Drug Action Committee (LCDAC), Leduc said...

"The first night was an excellent opportunity to network with other coalitions because there were open forum/ open table discussions. The presentation by Derek Peterson on asset building is something we can really use in our community.”