Exam preparation for Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM) can benefit substantially from dynamic, interactive learning methods. However, open discussions are not the only avenue accessible for productive discourse and collaboration. Let’s take a detailed look at two alternatives to open discussions – Delphi Technique and Lean Coffee.
1. Delphi Technique:
The Delphi technique is an interactive discussion tool which was initially developed by the RAND Corporation. It is a structured, multi-stage method reliant on a panel of experts.
Process:
- A facilitator begins the discussion by posing a question or a problem to the panel of experts.
- Participants then individually provide their responses or solutions.
- The facilitator collects all responses, anonymizes them, and shares this compiled information with the group.
- Participants review the compiled responses, vote on them, and may modify their initial answers based upon the newly obtained collective information.
- This process repeats until a consensus is reached on the subject matter.
Benefits:
- Anonymity helps in preventing the dominance of a few individuals over the discussion, promoting unbiased opinions.
- The process is iterative, allowing views to evolve based on collective intelligence.
Application in an A-CSM course:
During your A-CSM preparation, you can use the Delphi technique to collectively solve complex problems. For instance, participants can debate on the best strategy for resolving team conflicts or improving team performance in a Scrum environment.
2. Lean Coffee:
Originating in Seattle in 2009, Lean Coffee is a structured, but agenda-less meeting format that prioritizes topics based on the interest of the participants.
Process:
- Participants suggest topics for discussion and write them down on sticky notes or index cards.
- The entire group votes on each topic, determining the sequence of discussion based on the number of votes each topic receives.
- Discussions begin with the highest voted topic and proceeds down the list, with each topic given a strict time limit (often 5-8 minutes). The timing can be extended by group consensus.
- The cycle continues until the allocated time for the Lean Coffee is up.
Benefits:
- It democratizes the discussion by allowing participants to choose the subject matter and agenda.
- It ensures efficient utilization of time by adhering to strict time limits.
Application in an A-CSM course:
It can be utilized in your A-CSM course to identify common challenges, share experiences, or discuss best practices. For example, participants can propose and vote on specific scrum methodologies they want to discuss or review.
| Technique | Advantages | Example Applications in A-CSM courses |
|---|---|---|
| Delphi | Anonymity; Iterative processes | Solving complex problems |
| Lean Coffee | Democracy in agenda setting; Efficient time usage | Sharing experiences; Discussing methods |
In conclusion, Delphi Technique and Lean Coffee both offer robust and efficient alternatives to open discussions. Incorporating these structured and democratic techniques into your A-CSM preparation will help you gain a plethora of perspectives, promoting enriched collaborative learning.
Practice Test
True or False: Facilitated workshops are an alternative to open discussions.
- True
- False
Answer: True
Explanation: Facilitated workshops, which are structured meetings with predefined goals, are an efficient alternative to open discussions, allowing input from all participants in an organized manner.
Which of the following are alternatives to open discussion?
- a) Brainstorming
- b) Silent Generation
- c) One-on-one interviews
- d) All of the above
Answer: d) All of the above
Explanation: All of the options are alternatives to open discussion. Each allows for ideas and issues to be raised and addressed in focused and structured ways.
True or False: Survey and polling cannot be used as an alternative to open discussions.
- True
- False
Answer: False
Explanation: Survey and polling are actually efficient ways to gather opinions and information, especially when dealing with large groups.
In a Delphi Technique, the final decision is:
- a) Decided by the group leader
- b) Voted on by all participants
- c) Prepared after several rounds of anonymous discussion and feedback
- d) Decided by an external party
Answer: c) Prepared after several rounds of anonymous discussion and feedback
Explanation: The Delphi Technique involves several rounds of discussion and feedback, leading to a consensus decision.
True or False: Open Space Technology does not allow for small group discussions.
- True
- False
Answer: False
Explanation: Open Space Technology is actually a method that encourages small group discussions on a specific topic in a limited time frame.
What is Mind Mapping?
- a) A method of group decision-making
- b) A technique for visualizing related concepts and ideas
- c) A format for recording meeting minutes
- d) An alternative to facilitated workshops
Answer: b) A technique for visualizing related concepts and ideas
Explanation: Mind Mapping is a tool for visually organizing information, helping the group to see the relationships among different ideas and concepts.
True or False: One-on-one interviews are most effective when used in conjunction with other alternatives to open discussions.
- True
- False
Answer: True
Explanation: One-on-one interviews provide deep insights, but they may not represent the views of the entire group, so using them in conjunction with other techniques can provide a more holistic view.
Which of the following is not an alternative to open discussions?
- a) Fishbowl conversation
- b) Questionnaires
- c) Voting on each point of discussion
- d) Minute taking
Answer: d) Minute taking
Explanation: Minute taking is not an alternative to open discussions. It is an activity to document the discussion points and decisions in a meeting.
In the Nominal Group Technique:
- a) Discussions take place in small groups
- b) Everyone speaks at once
- c) Participants generate ideas silently and independently
- d) Participants share ideas in a large group discussion
Answer: c) Participants generate ideas silently and independently
Explanation: The Nominal Group Technique is a group decision-making process in which individual members independently generate ideas and solutions.
True or False: The use of the Retrospective Starfish Technique replaces the need for open discussions.
- True
- False
Answer: False
Explanation: The Retrospective Starfish Technique is an alternative to open discussions, but it does not replace the need for open discussions. This technique complements open discussions by providing insights into areas such as what to keep doing, start doing, stop doing etc.
Interview Questions
What is one popular alternative to open discussion used in Scrum?
One popular alternative is the Daily Scrum or Stand-up meeting. It is a short meeting limited to 15 minutes where each team member addresses three primary questions – what did you do yesterday, what will you do today, and are there any impediments in your way.
How can the use of written communication be an alternative to open discussion in Scrum?
Written communication, in forms of emails or team working platforms like Slack, can be an alternative. They allow for asynchronous communication where team members can refer back, making it a good alternative especially for remote and international teams.
What is a drawback of using only written communication as an alternative to open discussion in Scrum?
A major drawback can be the lack of immediate feedback and potential miscommunication. Also, it can lead to a lack of team spirit and connection if overused.
What is a Round-Robin meeting and how does it serve as an alternative to open discussion?
A Round-Robin meeting is a structured meeting format in which each participant speaks in turn, helping to ensure that everyone has an equal chance to contribute. This minimizes domination by one or a few individuals and can aid in decision-making processes.
What is another structured alternative to open discussion used in Scrum?
A retrospective meeting – it is a regular meeting in Scum to talk about what is working and what is not and agree on changes to try.
Can Kanban boards or Trello be used as an alternative to open discussion in a scrum team?
Yes, tools like Trello or physical Kanban boards can help teams visualize their work and progress, alongside providing a platform for asynchronous communication around tasks.
How does providing a platform for anonymous feedback serve as an alternative to open discussion in Scrum?
Anonymous feedback allows team members to express their thoughts and concerns without fear of repercussion, thus encouraging open and honest communication indirectly.
What is the benefit of using digital tools like Jira or Trello in lieu of open discussions in Scrum?
Digital tools like Trello or Jira help in tracking progress, identifying bottlenecks, and allowing non-verbal communication around tasks. This helps in streamlined and efficient project management and retains a record of all communication.
What is one-on-one communication and can it be an alternative to open discussion?
One-on-one communication involves direct conversation between two team members. It can be a powerful alternative to open discussions, particularly for sensitive topics or for providing individual feedback.
Can brainstorming serve as an alternative to open discussions in Scrum?
Yes, brainstorming can offer a more structured way of collecting and discussing ideas. It encourages maximal participation and allows for creative solutions to develop within the Scrum framework.
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