This project investigates the facilitation and blocking of understanding in structured, two-person conversations using Carl Rogers’ “two-way communication test.” In this method, each person may only make their own point after restating the other person’s point to that person’s satisfaction. The study aims to observe how this structured listening rule shapes communication dynamics, identify behaviors that help or hinder shared understanding, and explore how minimal facilitation can support participants in applying the rule.
Fifteen dyadic sessions will be conducted, each lasting 2–3 hours. In most cases, participants will attend one session; some may be invited to a follow-up to examine changes over time. The researcher will act as a light-touch facilitator, intervening only to help participants correctly apply the rule, clarify misunderstandings about the process, or keep the conversation on track. Sessions will be audio- and video-recorded for later thematic coding of facilitation behaviors, blocking behaviors, and participant interaction patterns.
Research Questions (RQs)
How does the application of the Carl Rogers “two-way communication test” influence the development of shared understanding between two people? What participant behaviors facilitate or block understanding within this structured listening framework?
What minimal facilitation strategies are most effective in helping participants adhere to and benefit from the rule?
In follow-up sessions, what changes occur in facilitation needs, blocking behaviors, or ease of maintaining shared understanding?
Methodology
Design: Qualitative, observational case study with structured communication exercise.
Participants: Pairs of adult volunteers recruited. Any pre-existing personal relationships between the researcher and participants will be disclosed. No supervisory or hierarchical relationships will be included, and participation will be entirely voluntary.
Procedure
Conduct 15 dyadic sessions using the Carl Rogers “two-way communication” rule.
The researcher’s role: light facilitation — prompt adherence to the rule, clarify process misunderstandings, manage timing, and maintain a respectful environment.
Sessions recorded in audio and video; brief post-session reflections collected.
Follow-up session optional for some dyads to explore longitudinal effects.
Data Collection & Analysis
Transcripts pseudonymized.
Thematic coding to identify facilitative behaviors, blocking behaviors, and facilitator interventions, using communication theory frameworks plus inductive coding.
Cross-case analysis to compare patterns.
Ethics & Data Protection
Informed consent for participation and recording; withdrawal permitted at any time.
Confidentiality maintained via pseudonyms and secure storage.
Data stored encrypted and destroyed after project completion.
Low risk: possible mild emotional discomfort; mitigated by structured listening rule, ground rules, and the ability to pause or stop.
Braver Conversations: Measure, Refine and Scale Rogers’ Two-Way Listening Method
Invitation:
Before you decide whether to take part in this study, it is important that you understand why the research is being done and what it will involve. Please take time to read this information carefully. You may discuss it with others if you wish. If there is anything unclear, you can contact the researcher using the details at the end of this sheet. Participation is entirely voluntary: you may choose not to take part or to withdraw at any time without giving a reason.
This study explores how a simple communication rule — Carl Rogers’ “two-way communication test” — affects understanding between two people. In this method, a person may only make their own point after restating the other person’s point to that person’s satisfaction. We want to identify behaviours that help people reach mutual understanding, behaviours that block or slow this process, and how minimal facilitation can help people apply the rule effectively. The study will run until December 2025.
You have been invited because you are aged 18 or over and may have experience in everyday conversations that involve differences of opinion or perspective. No specialist training is needed: the study is about ordinary communication between people.
You will take part in a session with one other participant. Most sessions will last 2–3 hours. The conversation will follow the “two-way communication” rule. The researcher will act as a light-touch facilitator to help you and your partner follow the rule. The conversation topic will be chosen so that you may have different perspectives, allowing the rule to be applied in practice. The session will be audio- and video-recorded. In some cases, you may be invited to a follow-up session to see whether communication patterns change over time.
Attend the scheduled session and engage in the conversation using the two-way communication rule. You will also be asked to treat your partner respectfully. There are no lifestyle changes required.
Yes. Audio and video recordings will be made so we can study verbal and non-verbal communication. Recordings will be identified only by a code and stored securely.
This is a low-risk study. Some topics might touch on personal opinions or experiences and could cause mild emotional discomfort. You may take breaks, skip topics, or stop at any time. If you feel distressed, you will be offered information about appropriate support services.
While there is no guaranteed personal benefit, you may find that the process improves your listening and communication skills. Your participation will also help us understand how structured listening can improve conversations.
Yes. All personal information will be kept confidential. Your name and identifying details will not appear in transcripts or reports. Data will be stored securely on encrypted systems and accessed only by the research team. For more information about how the University uses personal data in research, see: https://www.information-compliance.admin.cam.ac.uk/data-protection/research-participant-data
The results will be presented at conferences, published in articles or journals and a future book. You will not be identified in any publication. The anonymised data may also be used in future research on communication, with your consent.
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