A Space to Think, a Time to Listen - Thinking Environment
How can we create spaces that enable free and independent thinking? This course introduces the concept of the Thinking Environment – an approach and practice that fosters independent thinking through genuine listening. Based on key components of appreciative and attentive communication, participants experience how creativity, self-efficacy, and connection can unfold in well-structured thinking spaces
Participants explore different formats – from one-to-one conversations to moderated group dialogues and a public “Listening Pop-up” in Witten. The course includes guided reflection, peer listening tandem exercises, and structured documentation of experiences. The course is complemented by reflection questionnaires.
It takes place as a blended format. Between sessions, participants meet regularly in listening tandems to deepen their practice.
Marlen Nebelung
Als psychologische Beraterin begleite ich Führungskräfte und Organisationen in ihrer Entwicklung zu gesunden, nachhaltigen und dialogfähigen Kulturen. Mich begeistert, wie echtes Zuhören – etwa im Thinking Environment – Begegnung, Lernen und Wandel ermöglicht. Mein Anliegen ist, dies nicht nur zu erforschen, sondern praktisch zu leben und weiterzugeben – auch gesellschaftlich u.a. durch die Initiative „Zuhören Berlin“ / Zu:hör)Halt".
Objectives & Competences
Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of the theoretical foundations and practical principles of the Thinking Environment developed by Nancy Kline. They will develop an awareness of the importance of attentive presence as a prerequisite for quality thinking, authentic encounters, and appreciative communication.
In addition, listening as a core competence will be trained – both as an attitude and as a practical skill to enhance thinking, dialogue, and collaboration.
Throughout the course, participants will learn to
consciously design and facilitate thinking spaces,
stimulate independent thinking through incisive and generative questions,
identify and dissolve self-limiting assumptions,
reflect on the impact of presence, attention, and equality in communication processes,
apply deep-listening formats in various contexts (e.g. education, organizations, communities),
and independently guide and evaluate listening tandems and group processes.
These experiences strengthen communicative, personal, and social competences alike.
Maximum number of participants
20 participants