Cofacilitatorer

Cofacilitatorer are individuals who share the duty of guiding a group through a process, such as a workshop, planning session, or training. The arrangement relies on collaborative leadership, with two or more facilitators designing the agenda, delivering content, managing group dynamics, and shaping outcomes. In Swedish-language usage, the term cofacilitatorer is common; in English, cofacilitators is the equivalent.

Typical responsibilities are planning and structuring the session, establishing ground rules, monitoring time, inviting broad participation, handling conflicts, and summarizing conclusions. In practice, facilitators may split tasks so that one focuses on content and process while the other oversees logistics, transitions, and inclusivity.

Benefits of cofacilitation include increased neutrality, access to diverse expertise, shared workload, and models of collaboration that participants can imitate. It can also help balance power dynamics, accommodate different communication styles, and improve coverage when topics are complex or sensitive.

Effective cofacilitation depends on clear role agreements, mutual trust, rehearsal, and nonverbal coordination. Facilitators should establish cues, debrief after sessions, and adjust pacing or methods based on participant feedback.

Cofacilitatorer are commonly used in education, organizational development, community engagement, and participatory planning. They are most advantageous in settings that require inclusive discussion, joint decision making, and reflection, though they require careful planning to avoid role confusion or competing agendas.