Aristotle’s Cafe

This group discussion method creates meaningful dialogue through participant-generated questions. Aristotle’s Cafe combines elements of a debriefing activity with structured facilitation skills to encourage deep reflection. Trainers and group facilitators value how this group reflection tool naturally develops critical thinking whilst creating safe spaces for sharing. The blend of democratic process and guided discussion makes it perfect for workshops, training sessions or retreats.

Aristotle’s Cafe – Group Discussion Method

1. Form groups of 8 to 15 participants for every lead facilitator.
2. Instruct everyone to switch off their mobile phones and devices.
3. Distribute pen and paper to each participant.
4. Invite each person to write an open-ended question on their paper (without their name.)
5. When ready, collect all of the questions and read each aloud one by one to your group.
6. Invite each person to vote on which question the group would like to start with.
7. As the lead facilitator, create a respectful environment for sharing to help your group explore the complexity of ideas and uncover a deeper understanding of the topic.
8. Throughout the session, guide your group by:
   – Asking open-ended questions based on what the group shares;
   – Resisting the urge to share your own opinion; and
   – Inviting your group to consider that there are no right or wrong answers.
9. Most conversations conclude with a natural conclusion when everyone feels that they have had the opportunity to contribute.
10. If necessary, close with a few moments of reflection.