What is it?

The public participation simulation is a one day training event which creates an experience that recreates what people undergo when they are trying to make, or influence the making of, decisions affecting the common good.

Why was it created?

It was created to help people gain insights into the planning, decision making, and problem solving processes when complex issues are at stake and there are conflicting views as to what action is appropriate. It often takes years when people are in conflict to find common ground (and sometime it never happens). This simulation shortens that process of learning what works from several years to a few hours.

What makes it effective?

Making decisions when people are in conflict is problematic to say the least. There are numerous interests to take into account – special interest groups and organizations offering specialized and needed services, owners of resources, regulatory bodies and the community itself. This simulation takes all of these often conflicting interests into consideration without allowing participants to get bogged down into their “point of view” or the specifics of their situation.

It is content free. It teaches process and demonstrates the need for trust, communication and cooperation among all participants. It replicates in a few hours what it takes several years to experience in the actual situation in the community. It has been tested and works well in many cross cultural environments.

Who is it for?

This simulations is focused on three target groups: 1) the many publics; 2) politicians and public servants; and 3) multi-national corporations or crown corporations responsible for initiating projects. This is what makes it so unique.

What is involved in getting this training?

The simulation requires the reading of a short (3 page) background paper setting the context of the experience. Full time active participation in a workshop lasting approximately six hours is required. Participants must also complete a “plan of action” to implement their learnings in their back home environment and report the results in approximately three months.

How many participants are required?

The ideal number of participants representing all of the above noted target groups is forty-one although the exercise can be adjusted to handle slightly larger or smaller numbers. The exercise can also accommodate 12-15 observers under special circumstances.

Who can I talk with to see if it’s appropriate for my circumstances, organization or agency?

You can contact either one of the two co-creators of the simulation. If you are from central or western Canada you can contact Don Castleden or if you are from central or eastern Canada you can contact Angus MacIntyre.

Are there any pre-scheduled workshops that I can attend?

Generally speaking we organize each workshop for a specific community or organization or agency or region of the country. However, it is possible that a workshop will be held in an area and at a time that would be good for you and/or several members of your organization or group to attend.