Guidelines for The Effective Use of Newsprint

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          GUIDELINES FOR THE EFFECTIVE USE OF NEWSPRINT

Group members need to feel they're being listened to, and that
their ideas and concerns are recognized as worthy and important
contributions.  Using newsprint to record information from
brainstorming sessions or group discussion, shows a recognition of
people's ideas.  Below are some helpful hints when using newsprint.


     þ    Write (or print) clearly, large enough for all to see. 
          In a large hall, that may require 2" or 3" letters
          (large-format newsprint, 24" x 36" is hard to find but
          very desirable).

     þ    Use abbreviations or key words only if they are
          understood by the entire group.

     þ    Put a heading on each page.  The heading might be the
          question under discussion.  Not only does this clarify
          things later, it also reminds participants during the
          discussion what the focus is.

     þ    From time to time, check that you have recorded (or
          summarized) people's points accurately.

     þ    Often a newsprint session will generate lots of ideas:
          you will need to pick out a few to focus on in the next
          part of the discussion; devise a method for choosing the
          most appealing ideas (vote, a point system, consensus,
          etc.), then discuss the chosen ideas further.

     þ    There are times when using newsprint gets in the way; be
          sensitive to the times when people need to look at each
          other in the eye and talk, rather than looking at the
          newsprint.

     þ    Be willing to share the power of the pen.  Invite others
          to take newsprint notes.  At times you may want to invite
          speakers to summarize their own points.

     þ    One variation on the use of newsprint is what we have
          called a "graffiti brainstorm"; it requires several felt
          pens and a stretch of wall papered with newsprint, or the
          equivalent in butcher paper.  Post several discussion
          questions at the top of the newsprint sheets and invite
          group members to come up and write their answers.  There
          can also be multiple choice questions with space for
          tally marks.

• Lois M. Frey, UVM Extension, RR #4, Box 2298, Montpelier, VT 05602, (802) 223-2389, email: lfrey@sover.net
• "Group Development: Creating Group Effectiveness" by Duane Dale, DFD Associates, 99 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA 02138-3402 (moving to 764 South East Street, Amherst, MA 01022 after 8/1/98);
• Bob Biagi, 142 Cherry Lane, Amherst, MA 01002 (413) 549-1412;

Comments to: crs@uvm.edu
Reviewed as of 4/20/98