7. There are three skill levels of public deliberation.

Yes--the answer is true!

The three levels of public deliberation are:

Public Forums
This skill level involves learning how to deliberate with others using a predefined/framed issue. This is a learning level where individuals gain listening skills, an ability to reflect and identify a shared sense of direction. Individuals are also developing skills using an alternative/consequence model, to replace cost/benefit thinking.

Convening, Moderating, Recording and Reporting Deliberative Forums
At the median skill level the skills of conducting an effective deliberative forum and how to report the results are learned. Specific skills are related to organizing local steering committees, building community commitment, learning to use various moderating techniques, recording forums and learning to report the outcomes.

Issue Framing
The highest skill level is issue framing. At this level, skills being taught focus on how to frame issues for deliberation in public forums. Specifically, there is learning related to recognizing issues and implementing the process of issue framing.

Resources:

Mathews, David and McAfee, Noelle. 2000. Making Choices Together: The Power of Public Deliberation. Charles F. Kettering Foundation. Dayton: Ohio.

Charles F. Kettering Foundation http://www.kettering.org

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