The Salon-Keeper's Companion

Participation in a study circle implies a certain commitment. Ideally 5 to 20 participants meet once a week for at least three sessions and rarely for more than five or six. Each discussion lasts approximately two hours and is directed by a well-prepared leader whose role is to aid in lively but focused discussion. Participants receive in advance about an hour's worth of reading material covering the topic for the session.

Two individuals, the organizer and the leader, are central to the creation and success of a study circle. The study circle organizer selects or develops the reading materials, recruits participants, arranges the logistics of the meetings, and chooses the discussion leader. The study circle leader stimulates and moderates the discussion and guides the group toward the goals that it has agreed upon.

The leader does not need to be an expert or even the most knowledgeable person in the group. However, the leader should be the most well-prepared person in the room. The leader guides the study circle through his or her familiarity with the reading material, preparation of questions to aid discussion, previous reflection about the directions in which the discussion might go, knowledge of the people and personalities in the group, and a clear understanding of the goals of the study circle.

The most difficult aspects of leading discussion groups include keeping the discussion focused, handling aggressive participants, and keeping one's own ego at bay in order to truly hear participants. A background of leading small group discussion or meetings is helpful.

The goal of a study circle is not to master a text or to leam a lot of facts, but rather to deepen understanding and judgment. This can occur in a focused discussion when people exchange views freely and consider a variety of viewpoints. The process–democratic discussion among equals–is as important as the content.

Participants should commit to attending all meetings, help keep the discussion on track, address their remarks to the group rather than to the leader, listen carefully to others, speak freely without monopolizing the discussion, and maintain an open mind, even when they disagree with what is being said.

It is not necessary for a study circle to achieve consensus. In some cases a group will split. There's no need to hammer out agreement.

Close each session with a summary and perhaps an evaluation. Review the overall goals of the program and discuss whether the group has moved toward those goals.