Gossip Method
Start: begin immediately. Prepare: save your settings for reuse.
A 5-step intervision technique where the group openly discusses the case presenter while they listen.
Activity
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Facilitators
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Participants
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Step-by-step instructions
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Steps
- The presenter introduces themselves and states the question or situation.
- The group asks clarifying questions to understand the situation.
- “Gossiping”: the presenter turns their chair away and listens; the group discusses the situation as if they weren't there — openly, honestly and constructively.
- The presenter turns back and responds: what struck them, what will they take away?
- The group evaluates the process.
Settings
- Time per step (minutes) — optional. Set 0 for no timer. The method has 5 steps.
- Preparation: one participant brings a real situation (case).
Tip: a practice case with AI
No real case at hand? Ask Microsoft Copilot: “Write a short, relatable situation about [topic/context] to practise the gossip method.” Use it as a practice case.
Tips for the facilitator
Group of 4–8 participants. Chairs in a circle. One participant brings a situation — and turns their chair around in step 3.
- Agree before the session: gossiping here is a technique, not real gossip. Openness and respect are the foundation.
- Give the presenter time to listen calmly — do not interrupt the gossiping step
- Appoint someone to note key words during the gossiping so the presenter can read them back afterwards
- Teachers, therapists or social workers who want a fresh perspective on a stuck situation
- Teams who want to practise honest but safe feedback
- Colleagues from the same profession — beyond education too: healthcare, welfare, coaching
Described in: Bellersen, M. & Kohlmann, I. Praktijkboek Intervisie (3rd ed.). Boom.
Pairs well with
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