Deliberative Dialogue

Deliberative dialogue focuses on finding the best course of action by establishing a framework for mutual understanding. Led by a skilled moderator, deliberative dialogue workshops are structured conversations involving individuals from a variety of backgrounds. Participants are encouraged to think together, to examine different perspectives on an issue, and to explore possible options and solutions.  In contrast to many methods, values play a central role.

In the workshop, the moderator encourages participants to delve deeper, to discuss personal experiences, and to clarify what is important to them.  Although consensus may not be achieved, by collectively examining trade-offs and conflicts associated with an issue, common ground ideas, based on a core set of values, typically emerge from which alternatives can be developed and actions recommended.

Through our experience, Praxis moderators have found this method to be particularly useful when addressing social and bio-ethical issues.

Featured Project

Recreational Vehicle Camping in Alberta: A Demand and Supply Side Perspective

In 2009 Praxis Research conducted a study of recreational vehicle (RV) campers and campgrounds in Alberta for Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation. The study assessed the extent to which Alberta's campgrounds are adequate in numbers, condition and diversity. The study used primary and secondary sources including print and web…