Rap group

Small discussion group to explore and compare the personal experience of each of the members in order to arrive at political conclusions. Typically the leadership is rotated and a disciplined structure ensures that each person is able to share and to be listened to on a basis of equality. Contributions are generally accepted without comment until all have spoken in turn and then reflections and conclusions are discussed, each person having time allocated for their participation.[Advantages]

Personal experience is discovered to be shared by others and this consciousness of affinity both releases them from what they thought a solitary burden and engages them in common effort to respond creatively to their situation. A very effective way to initiate a conference as it builds interpersonal solidarity, warmth and trust, and creates a participant-generated context for the process. The time allocations to allow each person time to be listened to, encourages both speaking and listening skills.

[Disadvantages]

The disciplined structure can be disconcerting to people who are unaccustomed to being listened to without interruption. Although much valuable material is contributed, little is recorded, and what is a very significant experience can be forgotten because there are no written or even verbal reports or products.