A17: Description of the ORID Discussion Method

ORID is a discussion method used with groups to move participants along a continuum of "consciousness raising" regarding a particular issue of concern. It is frequently applied to issues that are not political in nature and is more appropriate for encouraging individuals, as opposed to groups, to take action steps to address the issue. ORID is often used in conjunction with a role-play, story, photograph, or other discussion tool that gives a representation of the issue one is trying to address in a more stimulating medium.

Participants are led, sequentially, through a set of "Objective" questions, "Reflective" questions, "Interpretive" questions, and "Decisional" questions. Objective questions get the facts from what participants felt saw, heard, touched, smelled, tasted, etc. during the discussion tool. Reflective questions explore the participant's emotional responses, feelings, and associations in relation to the discussion tool. Interpretive questions explore the significance that people attach to the subject, including the values, meanings, and purpose of the discussion tool. Lastly, the Decisional questions try to move participants toward future action steps to address/improve the current situation as related to the issue of concern.

For examples of ORID questions visit the Roundtable Associates Website - http://www.roundtableassociates.com/orid.htm

The following appendices represent the discussion tools and ORID questions applied during the Fuquay-Varina Community Forum.

A16

A18