Meeting roles
Note:  Every meeting and group will not have all of these every time.

Convenor Calls the meeting (such as when a principal calls a meeting of the faculty) Ensures that the room is arranged and that equipment is available Ensures that the agenda is developed and distributed. Facilitator (often, but not always, the convenor) more tips for facilitator remains neutral (does not express an opinion) focuses group energy keeps the group on task directs processes encourages participation elicits clarity if the facilitator wishes to become an advocate, he/she should change hats with somebody else. Recorder  tips for recorders records data, information, and decisions provides framework of reference for work publishes a written minutes of the meeting uses chart paper or white board to capture ideas assists latecomers validates input and inreases clarity by asking brief clarifying questions provides a focus point for the participants remains neutral Gatekeeper  keeps track of time on each items and reminds group when time has expired if no coach is designated (see below) serves as "process coach" to the facilitator and group, suggesting processes that may serve to move the item along, such as brainstorming, focusing four, a survey, etc. Person someone with role authority (such as a principal) develops group member leadership coordinates the activities of subcommittees ensures that meeting follow-through occurs Person with Knowledge Authority, and often the proposer of a solution (such as the department chairman who is advocating a new course to a curriculumm council, or the Technology Coordinator for advice about whether a new idea is feasible.) provides expert information advocates for his/her ideas informs group about constraints and resouces actively particpates Coach Invites discussion about the processes used in the meeting. Asks participants to reflect privately about their own contributions to the meeting. Participant monitors own and others adherence to group agreements seeks and provides data opens the door for tohers to express themselves listens A note about the School Head or other administrator:  Often in schools, an administrator will attend a meeting, not as a team member but because of his/her responsibility and interest in the group's success, and interest in the topic and outcome.  The administrator should make his/her role clear.  Expert? Resource person?  Participant?  Observer?  Convenor?  Proposer?  It can be any of these, but the group members need to know.  (See Why the Administrator Should Not Run Their Own Meetings.)   Tips for recorders: Write what people say on chart paper for everyone to see; ask for permission to paraphrase or re-word an item.  (e.g., "May I write all community members rather than everybody?) Ask participants to summarize long ideas. Write clearly with dark markers.  Use colors to accent and highlight. When sheets are filled, use masking tape to hang charts on wall. Make it clear to the group when you wish to contribute your own ideas and opinions; then step aside temporarily to make your comment. Ask another recorder to help when ideas are flowing too fast.

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