Tools for Schools, August/September 1999, Vol. 3, No. 1

Norms put the Golden Rule into practise for groups

By Joan Richardson

Lillian always arrives late and thinks nothing of chatting with her seatmate while someone else is trying to make a point. Arthur routinely reads a newspaper during each meeting. Barbara can\'t wait until each meeting ends so she can head to the parking lot to tell someone what she could have said during the meeting.

Developing norms

This activity will enable a group to develop a set of operating norms or ground rules. In existing groups, anonymity will help ensure that everyone is able to express their ideas freely. That is the reason for suggesting that the facilitator provide pens or pencils and ask that everyone use the same type of writing implement.

Norms of the NSDC Board of Trustees and staff

Norms for meetings