6. FACILITATING A STORY CIRCLE
Story circles use the age-old tradition of storytelling as a way to bring people together to
build relationships and help one another. Story circles help participants develop, clarify,
or structure the digital story they want to create in a supportive group environment.
Usually people sit in a circle and present their story ideas, including their script and
images. Having individuals share personal stories within a group process gives
everyone the opportunity to explore a range of ideas, learn from each other, and polish
their own pieces.
Story circles typically take 2-3 hours, giving up to 10 workshop participants
approximately 10 minutes each to share their ideas and get feedback. When facilitating
a story circle, establishing safety and comfort from the outset is important to creating a
positive learning experience and producing effective, meaningful digital work. Here are
some tips…
zTime frame: Determine the time allowed for the entire process and for each
individual story, as well as for breaks during the circle. Identify a person willing to be
the timekeeper if you wish. If the story discussion has not reached resolution or the
storyteller is still feeling unresolved, summarize key ideas and remind them that they
can get further support one-on-one following the story circle. If participants ask “Can I
just add one more comment?” you can respond with the question, “Can you share it with
the storyteller following the story circle?”
zGround Rules: Before beginning any story discussion, establish ground rules with
the group. A few of our favorites are:
☺ Respect. Everyone’s story is valid; it’s not about competition. Be non-judgmental—no
negative facial expressions, body language, or sounds that indicate disinterest or
disapproval.
☺ Confidentiality. What is said in the room stays in the room.
☺ Consideration. Let each person talk until they are finished presenting their
script/story idea, before jumping in with comments or questions.
☺ Offering Feedback: Let the storytellers begin by telling the group what kind of
feedback or assistance they would like. Ask others to start with something positive
and supportive; then ask questions. It is best to avoid “shoulds”. Remind the group
that they shouldn’t feel compelled to comment or to reiterate someone else’s
comment.
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Facilitating a Story Circle
☺ The Workshop Space: Cell phones OFF during the discussion.
☺ Emotions: Challenging ones may come up. Passion (anger, sadness, inspired
dreams) are OK and don’t need to be apologized for.
☺ Silence: Is OK. If someone is struggling with what to say, don’t make him or her feel
rushed.
zFacilitator Questions: If you’re facilitating a story circle and are struggling with what
to say, after someone has shared their written piece of story ideas, the following
questions may be useful:
V Appreciative comment: I really liked (fill in the blank) about your story. A
phrase/something that jumped out to me was….That was very powerful and I
appreciate you sharing that story.
V Getting Personal: Who do you see as the audience for this story? What first- hand
experience could you include to convey your ideas to that audience?
V Narrative Arc: After hearing your story, I can think of many different ways you could
structure it. I have these ideas (share ideas), but what would you choose?
V Create a Scene: I heard something about (fill in the blank) in your story, and I’m
curious to hear more about that. Is there a specific incident that comes to mind?
What would be a way to “create a scene” in your story?
V Clarification: It sounds like you’re talking about (fill in the blank). Is this right, or did
you mean something else?
V Visuals: What images do you have in mind for your story?
V Support: Are you open to feedback? Is there anything else you would like us to give
you feedback on? Do you have enough feedback to move forward?
V Summarizing: (To end with, before going on to the next person) Do you have any
more questions for us, or for the group? Do you feel like you have enough to work
with, to take the next step with your script?
zClosure: Be sure to end the story circle with supportive and positive comments that
thank everyone for their honest and open participation. Let everyone know that they can
check in with instructors on an individual basis to continue to develop their script ideas.
Adapted with permission from the Center for Digital Storytelling
Copyright © 2011 The Regents of University of California. All Rights Reserved.
