Some recent research has highlighted the transformative power of conversation. I presented on this topic at the Melbourne KMLF last night. This was one of three “Ignite” format presentations done on the night. This format requires twenty slides, timed at 15 seconds each. Total time per presentation – 5 minutes, plus discussion.
The slide pack, including speaker notes, is available at SlideShare. A list of references is also included on the Notes page of the last slide.
The main ideas drawn on for this presentation are as follows:
- Some thoughts from Theodore Zeldin on “conversation and minds”, from David Gurteen’s site.
- Research by Anita Williams Woolley, et al, who found that “small groups demonstrate distinctive ‘collective intelligence’ when facing difficult tasks”.
- My previous post on The Idea Monopoly?.
- An article about Steven Johnson’s ideas on cultural progress, discussing his book Where Good Ideas Come From.
- Research by Oscar Ybarra, et al, showing that even brief, friendly conversations can improve individual mental function.
We also discussed the pros and cons of the format, with mixed results. I think that it is a great format, provided that it can lead into further discussion as required. We have just started using MeetUp for managing Melbourne KMLF events, so expect further discussion on the MeetUp post.
