Grassrooter participant type

Conference participants who have a mistrustful relationship towards experts and specialists and who judge the value of a meeting by the participation of the grassroot constituency. Believes that the grassroot participants are in close touch with the "real" situation, and tend to trust action rather than theory.[Advantages]

Can make non-specialist participants feel they have valuable contributions to make. Can be sensitive to local and specific issues. Tend to encourage practical action. A useful balance to expertist types.

[Disadvantages]

Can be naive and paternalistic about the contribution of grassroot participants. Can ignore dimensions of local issues that are more universal. Can be trapped by obvious and popular solutions.