The CQ

A. Summary:

A CQ is a series of web conferences in the Star Café, designed to share knowledge on a specific topic or skill. A CQ is a form of small group learning in the Star Café and has its own format and protocols. CQ comes from the Latin word colloqui, which means "to talk together".

B. Key Points:

· A CQ is a series of web conferences in the Star Café, dedicated to a specific topic or skill

· CQ comes from the Latin word colloqui, meaning "to talk together"

· A CQ has a specific format and utilizes the Star Café web conferencing protocols to ensure that communication is smooth and effective

· Each CQ includes from 4 to 6 participants

· Each CQ Course is comprised of 3 Sessions, each of which is designed to last 45 minutes

· When a participant successfully completes a course of CQs, they achieve a level of competence in that topic or skill

· The learning offered in a CQ is enhanced by other tools such as Star Café Community Rooms, Star Paths, and Star Points

· CQ’s are often paired with a LearnAbout, a specialized room in the Star Cafe

· For corrections, updates, or clarifications on this Star Point, please email Bob Goodman

C. Details:

A CQ is a structured series of web conferences for the exchange of knowledge in the Star Café. A CQ is a form of small group learning with a specific format and protocols. CQ comes from the Latin word colloqui which means "to talk together". 

Ideally, a CQ involves a total of 4 to 6 participants. One participant will act as a Facilitator, who ensures that the conference goes smoothly. A CQ may also call for a Knowledge Expert. It is possible for a qualified individual to serve as both Facilitator and Knowledge Expert.

A CQ session is delivered via a web conference and includes both shared visuals and audio via a conference call. The usual Star Café web conference protocols are taught (or refreshed) to help make these sessions smooth and efficient.

Each CQ course features a series of 3 CQ sessions, each of which is designed to last 45 minutes. After the three sessions, participants should be familiar with the topic. Two additional courses may be available to further expand participants’ knowledge, enabling them to become a resource to their department or an expert in the subject.

A CQ is always accompanied by other Star Café tools to maximize the learning opportunity. One such tool is a LearnAbout, a specialized Star Cafe Room dedicated to the topic. Star Path animations help reinforce the detailed steps that the student will master, and Star Points in the Star Academy provide reference documents that cover specific topics or aspect of the learning.

The LearnAbout that accompanies a CQ can include:

· A Directory of others who have an expressed interest or expertise in the topic

· A set of Star Paths that explain & recreate the way you interact with the topic or skill

· A Calendar and a list of upcoming events or CQ’s related to this topic

· Links to the Star Academy and to the full set of Star Points that have been developed for this topic

· Announcements that alert the Community to relevant news or events

· A set of FAQ’s that grow over time

· A topical Discussion Forum that grows over time and can include an exchange related to problems users are encountering in the field