Skip To Content

 Michigan State University Logo

Michigan State University
ANR Events Management System

Technology of Participation (ToP) Facilitation Methods Course (TFM)

ToP Facilitation Methods (TFM) Training

hosted by

Michigan State University Extension SNAP-Ed and EFNEP

 

SNAP-Ed: Wednesday and Thursday, June 4-5, 8:30am-5:00pm 

EFNEP: June 6, 8:30pm – 5:00pm

 

Location: Eaton County Extension Office

551 Courthouse Drive #1

Charlotte, MI 48813

SCHEDULE: 

  • Check-in will be open 8:00 to 8:25 A.M.  We will begin the training both days promptly at 8:30 A.M. and end by 5:00 P.M.
  • We will have a one-hour break for lunch both days.

LODGING:

  • Lodging location is being finalized. Please make sure to select the correct lodging needs when completing your registration. A confirmation number and hotel information will be emailed to each staff member. Please review this information to confirm the check-in and check out dates are accurate when you receive the confirmation email.

 

What is ToP?
The Technology of Participation (ToP) is a structured set of facilitation methods created by the Institute for Cultural Affairs that helps groups think, talk and work together, representing a smarter way to engage groups for better results. 

The ToP Facilitation Methods Course introduces learners to the three foundational methods. Participants learn proven ways to activate group participation through:

The Focused Conversation Method

  • Provides a structure for clear dialogue, allows participants to share perspectives, and deepens group understanding and commitment to action.

The Consensus Workshop Method

  • Engages all participants, organizes group ideas and decisions, and reveales consensus while building effective partnerships.

The Action Planning Method

  • Delineates tasks and organizes a group around the implementation of an event or a project.

The two core values of ToP are that of INCLUSIVE PARTICIPATION and PROFOUND RESPECT. These values guide professional networking and engagement during this course. Each participant is given the opportunity to:

  • Create meaningful connections with other participants.
  • Engage with peers facing similar challenges in the field.
  • Participate in the manner that suits their comfort level.

Accommodations

Michigan State University Extension programs, services events, and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, or veteran status. Accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by contacting the event contact two weeks prior to the start of the event. Requests received after this date will be honored whenever possible.  

Contact Information

For more information or questions related to the training and content contact Becky Henne at henner@msu.edu.

For any questions related to lodging email Ashley Schwieterman at schwiet6@msu.edu.

For EFNEP staff training related questions please contact Gary Libretti at libretti@msu.edu