Variations on the fishbowl

1. The fishbowl method could be used to observe group process and help define particular roles that people play and the authority those roles command. The outside circle might be asked to observe:

· Who does most of the talking? Who remains silent?
· What differing roles do individuals play?
· How and why does the discussion get off track?
· What body language is used and what does it communicate?
· How are conflicts resolved?

2. The fishbowl technique is useful for problem solving or decision making when you are working with a large group. First break into smaller groups for discussion on a particular topic. Then form a fishbowl with representatives from each small group representing the position of their respective groups (whose members make up the silent outer circle of the fishbowl). After some discussion, the small groups reform for more discussion and make any changes in their original position to be presented in the next round of fishbowl. The process could be repeated several times until a resolution is found.