Workshop by Bjørn Z. Ekelund ¹
¹ +4790875547, Norway
TIME: Wednesday, 15 July, 10:30 – 12:00
Location: Room 4
Session: 12
Abstract
In the Diversity Icebreaker seminar the participants co-create the meaning of three communication style dimensions, named Red, Blue and Green in mono-coloured groups due to their dominant scores where they describe themselves and others from inside and outside perspectives. Blue is more task and detail-oriented. Green is more holistic and future-oriented Red is more social and communicative. The language as a metaphorical structure used in the seminar builds a culture of inclusivity. The simplicity and ease of mastery of the categories make it easy for everyone to apply them. The colours are defined reciprocally, thus strengthening the needs of the others. It is named “icebreaker” because it is often used in the beginning of processes and conferences, involving participants in a co-creation of a shared language relevant for dialogical learning processes. The “Diversity” concept refers to “communication style / cognitive style”. It is a seminar concept that has involved more than 1/2 million people in 80 countries. My intention here is to do a classical engaging process with all involving participants early in the conference, and then in my oral presentation share how I reframe this into a process where we reflect upon the power of language as a categorical system forming perceptions and interaction.