Facilitation and Ethics in Participatory Video

1. The role of the facilitator in participatory video

Key characteristics to be a good facilitator:

• Clearly explain what you are going to do.
• Manage expectations: clearly explain the potential benefits. 
• Get to know the participants: learn their names and backgrounds.
• Encourage participation: be aware of who is talking and help quieter participants to take part.
• Be an active listener: always listen and pay attention, even if someone is not speaking in your language. In this case you can engage a local translator.
• Be observant: be aware of group dynamics.
• Be positive: always encourage and support participants.
• Be neutral: make sure you facilitate all views.
• Behave according to local rules and customs: respect local customs including appropriate expressions and body language.
• Feedback and questions: ask for feedback and answer participant’s questions.