Aligned Format: Clarifying Challenges

Building trust and understanding in any ecosystem requires more than good intentions—it demands structured collaboration.

As part of the EdTech Strategy Lab and EmpowerED projects, I’ve co-designed an interactive workshop format called Clarifying Challenges at 20+ events - helping diverse stakeholders develop shared understanding around key topics.

How It Works

The format is elegantly simple yet effective. Groups of 4-15 participants engage in a 60-minute facilitated discussion, followed by networking and a plenary insights session. Participants self-select into groups focused on guided themes—specific questions or topics designed to prompt discussion from multiple perspectives.

The session structure maximizes engagement:

• 20 minutes: Context-setting keynote introducing themes

• 20 minutes: Individual brainstorming on post-it notes from organizational, professional, or personal viewpoints

• 15 minutes: Collaborative grouping and condensing of ideas by theme

• 20 minutes: Plenary session where Table Leads present 3-minute summaries

The Secret Ingredient: Table Leads

Table leads are a core component of the format - experienced facilitators serve as Table Leads, guiding discussions, synthesizing complex ideas, and ensuring every voice is heard. They transform scattered thoughts into coherent insights, preparing summaries that capture the essence of each group's discoveries.

Lasting Impact

All insights are carefully documented through notes and recordings, creating a comprehensive record that informs future workshops and events. This collaborative process doesn't just generate ideas—it builds the shared understanding necessary for meaningful progress in EdTech partnerships.

The beauty of Clarifying Challenges lies in its emphasis on clarity, inclusivity, and actionable outcomes. By bringing diverse stakeholders together in structured dialogue, collaborative relationships are continuously fostered through an engaging format.