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Simple Tools for Active Facilitation and Training
Simple Tools for Active Training and Facilitation
For years, the best trainers and facilitators have used index
cards to increase participation. Generally, cards are used in
two distinct ways:
-to reinforce learning (in training) or -to brainstorm and
cluster themes (in facilitation.)
Let's explore how to use this fantastic, simple tool!
Using Cards to Reinforce Learning: Three Activities
In almost every workshop, I use a card activity in some form.
These are wonderful ways to get participants up and moving and
to stimulate recall.
Purpose of the Activities
To allow participants to immediately apply learning in a
participatory fashion.
Materials Needed
A large wall, blackboard, whiteboard, window, or other blank
space.
Prepared cards, as described below.
Variation One: Correct or Incorrect?
Instructor delivers a short lecture on the topic. S/he
vertically divides a large wall area with a strip of masking
tape and titles each side based on the subject of his/her
lecture. (Here are examples of categories used by my previous
students in their own workshops:)
-legal vs. illegal questions to ask in a job interview
-admissible vs. non-admissible evidence -actual wording of
policies or regulations vs. "commonly believed" meanings
-"symptoms that require a vet" vs. " symptoms that can be taken
care of at home."
The instructor supplies prepared cards, one or several per
participant or group. On each card is an example that fits into
one of the categories on the wall. In a time-limited period,
participants must read their card, decide in which category it
belongs, and post it into the correct column.
Instructor then facilitates a dialogue of the choices, asking
the class for revised placements where necessary.
Variation Two: Match Terms with Definitions Following a short
lecture, instructor distributes one card, facedown, to each
class member. Half of the cards have "terms" taken from the
lesson and half have the matching "definitions."
In a limited amount of time, participants must get up out of
their chairs, move about the room, and find their matches, then
read and explain or model to the rest of the class.
Variation Three: Yes or No? (Polling)
This is a sort of kinesthetic "mini-quiz." Each participant has
two cards, one yellow (true) and one blue (false.) Instructor
asks questions based on the lesson and people must respond by
"holding up their colors." Instructor facilitates discussion
around correct answers when colors shown are not unanimous.
Using Cards to Brainstorm and Cluster Themes (A Facilitation
Tool)
Often called "All on the Wall," this technique has many
variations. The Institute for Cultural
Affairs introduced it to
me in the mid-1980's. It's a great technique to use with any
sized group - I've used it successfully with groups as small as
4, as large as 200, and have read about it being used with
groups of 1,000 or more!
What I love most about this brainstorming and clustering
technique is that it includes the act of reflection. This means
that people with more introverted personalities can participate
fully with ease.
Purpose of the Activity
To facilitate divergent thought and the clustering of themes.
Materials Needed
A large wall, blackboard, whiteboard, window, or other blank
space.
Large Post-It's, index cards with masking tape, or just cut
paper used with an adhesive wall (butcher paper sprayed with
adhesive.)
Steps
Facilitator prepares, posts and facilitates a discussion of a
relevant Focus Question. (Examples: "What are our organization's
most valuable strengths?" "What directions should we go if the
levy is passed?")
Participants reflect on the question individually, then scribble
a list of personal responses.
In pairs, participants share their responses. Pairs then write
their responses on cards, putting only one concept per card.
Pairs generate as many ideas (cards) as possible.
Facilitator asks pairs to bring "their best idea" and post it on
the wall. Then s/he asks for their "most creative idea," "most
challenging idea," etc. etc. These cards go up randomly, with no
attempt at categorization.
When 8-15 cards are posted, the facilitator asks participants to
view the wall of cards. S/he holds up one card and asks, "Does
any other card up here seem to share this underlying them?"
Facilitator creates 5-6 pairs.
Participant post the remaining cards, categorizing those with
existing pairs that seem to "make sense," and posting the rest
without attempting to categorize them.
Facilitator urges participants to look for cards that share
themes until all cards are organized into columns or clumps. New
columns often must be made. The important thing is to group by
"feel" for underlying themes, not necessarily by logic alone.
The facilitator works with the group to name the themes. S/he
posts a title card on top of each of the columns or clumps.
These titles should answer the focus question in insightful ways.
Simple as they are, cards can be used in many ways to pump up
participation inclusion, and learning. For more ideas, contact
Guila at guila@guilamuir.com.
About the author:
Guila Muir pumps up your facilitation and training skills!
Helping people to run dynamic meetings and trainings since 1989,
Guila provides tools, tips, and techniques to boost your skills.
Sign up for her free e-newsletter at
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