21/24 BITES
This module is a part of a larger collection of bite-sized learning on facilitating social learning spaces.
This collection of learning bites was created by Danida Fellowship Centre together with Beverly and Etienne Wenger-Trayner and produced by Grape and Brand By Hand. Photos used in the collection were taken by @Crawfurd Media, @E Pictures Media Ltd, @Daniel Samwel and Danida Fellowship Centre, supplemented with Stock Photos.
Facilitating social learning spaces means looking after them – even when it means stepping in to steer things back on track.
Sometimes, people’s enthusiasm or curiosity can spill over in ways that close others out – without them even realising it.
Your role is to notice and gently redirect the flow, so everyone stays engaged.
So how do you do that – in ways that protect the group’s energy without creating unnecessary tension? Let’s take a look.
When someone’s behaviour starts to sideline others – whether by dominating airtime, going off-topic, or pulling focus – step in.
Acknowledge their input, then guide the conversation back: “Let’s hear from others as well” or “That’s interesting – we’ll park it and return later.”
Make space for those who may have been overshadowed. Invite them by name, or pose a question to the whole group.
Sometimes a simple “What do you think, Maria?” is enough.
If a pattern keeps repeating, speak to the person in private. In most cases people are not deliberately intruding in the space, and making them aware of the influence they are having should be handled with care. Speaking with them in private also avoids further negative impact on the learning flow of others in the group.
Share what you’ve noticed, explain the impact, and agree on ways they can contribute without closing others out.
For rare, more severe cases – such as direct personal attacks – you’ll need to set clear boundaries and take firmer action.
Handling intrusions – guide
A practical guide to handling intrusions in a learning space.
““You don’t need to please everyone. You need to protect the group.””Beverly Wenger-Trayner
Maybe someone dominated, interrupted, or dismissed others. Maybe someone else withdrew or went silent.
What happened – and how did it affect the group?
Take a moment to reflect on the following:
Work document
You can use the work document to note down your thoughts – or just pause and reflect.
