Moderator Meetings

It is important to hold moderator meetings twice a month (typically during the week between dialogues). Moderator meetings provide an opportunity to take care of the maintenance of the individual dialogue groups and the SD program. Moderator meetings provide a space for SD leaders and moderators to work on programmatic and dialogue problems and issues together.

The responsibility of conducting the moderator meeting falls on the Head Moderator. Moderator meetings encourage and enable dialogue groups to pursue their unique directions while uniting them under the common goal of improving campus race relations. The agenda of a typical moderator meeting includes (click here for a sample agenda):

Exchange of useful ideas – Exchange ideas and experiences regarding effective exercises for dialogues in order to improve the quality of one another’s meetings

Problem Solving – Use other moderators as a resource to solve problems in groups. Exchange ideas and methods to make sure the dialogues are at the highest quality possible.

Sharpening moderator skills – The Head Moderator conducts regular review and practice sessions of specific skills (ie, debriefing, agenda setting). SDCN can supplement moderator meetings with moderator refreshers throughout the year.

Gaining deeper understanding of process – Moderator meetings also offer an opportunity to conduct review sessions of SD theory. Devoting time to working out particularly difficult elements, like moderating through the stages and utilizing the concept of the relationship, enables moderators do their job more effectively.

Monitor the progress of groups – Each group will progress through the process differently. Beware of how the groups develop. It is important to assess problems and/or intervene in groups that are faltering.

Foster group cohesion – The better the dynamic between moderators, the stronger the program. Moderator cohesion promises to improve SD presence on campus, the strength of SD events, and dialogue group quality. Consider hosting a social event (maybe a dinner, or study break with food during finals), or ordering moderator t-shirts, to show moderators that their work is appreciated. Respect the demands on moderators, both within SD and as students: moderator meetings should not exceed the time alotted, nor should they be conducted without a relevent agenda.

Discuss SD programmatic developments – Discuss SD program issues, events, and achievments so that moderators feel like they have a say in where the organization goes. Keep track of and share action plans so that everyone is aware of the success and progress of the SD program.

Moderator Dialogues– Moderator dialogues can be a part of the SD program, if the moderators think its worthwhile. Moderator dialogue provide extra practice for moderators, allow moderators to explore their own questions, and create a powerful dialogue group.

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Int'l Institute for SD

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