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Open space technology (OST) is designed to deal with real issues and topics, no matter how the nature of the issue or topic may be defined. For OST to work, it must focus on real issues/topics that are of passionate concern to those who will be involved. It is effective in situations where a diverse group of people must deal with complex in innovative and productive ways. It is particularly powerful when nobody knows the answer, and the ongoing participation of a number of people is required to deal with the questions.
Open Space runs on two fundamentals, passion and responsibility. Without passion, nobody is interested. Without responsibility, nothing will get done. OST will work superbly if people are quite willing to admit that they do not know all of the answers, but believe that collectively they have a shot at creating viable solutions.
The idea for the Gathering’s Open Space is to consider promising practices/good ideas that somebody is interested in. Think of powerful ideas that really grab you to the point that you will take personal responsibility to ensure that something gets done. Proposing an area of discussion and taking responsibility does not require that you be an expert or that a formal presentation be given. Taking responsibility means that you will designate during Open Space to convene a session, and do some thinking ahead of time about the session.
Our Open Space session, on April 30, 2:30 – 4:00 p.m., will provide time and space for the participants to gather in order to generate new knowledge about our question. Given the talent that will be at the Gathering, the design of the day will not be to tell people what to do, but instead, to provide a supportive environment in which everyone will be able to be engaged with a minimum of hassle.
How Open Space Works
- A participant decides on a particular topic he/she wants to pursue related to the question: What promising practices ensure and promote the affirmative development of boys and young men of color?
- The participant gives the topic a short title and posts it on the Open Space board.
- Other participants who want to join in that particular exploration will sign up.
- Convening places will be arranged for the posted sessions.
- Enjoy the experience!
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