Title

The Name Games

Uses a ball that represents the world and participants are asked to throw the ball to another participant whom they name.
Variation 1: Throw the ball, say your name and ask the question “If you had the world in your hands what would you change globally?”
Variation 2: Throw the ball and ask the question “What would you change nationally?”
Variation 3: Throw the ball and ask the question “What would you change locally?”
Variation 4: Throw the ball and ask “What would you change in your personal life?”

These questions can be adapted with a focus upon whatever your learning circle is presently exploring.

Group Discussion

Participants are given a question to reflect upon and then discuss.  Variations can include:

• give learners personal time to reflect and jot down a series of words that they associate with the subject under consideration.  Group discussion begins with participants sharing their words
• asking learners to take on particular positions in discussion
• asking learners to take the 'role' of particular players in a discussion (e.g. how might a councillor comment upon this)

Spectrum Lines

Assign one part of the room to 'strongly agree' and another to 'strongly disagree'. The facilitator then reads out statements, learners are required to physically  position themselves on the continum. The facilitator then uses probing questions to get participants voicing their opinions.

Role Play

Role play is not everyones favorite method but it can be done in a variety of ways that need not intimidate reticent participants.   Role play is valuable when looking at developing communication skills.

• Whole group role play where all participants are required to take on roles
• Small group role play and reflection. Participants are in groups of 3 or 4, a number of participants are given 'roles' and others are briefed regarding observation and feedback.
• Circle role play.  2 circles of chairs are placed face to face. Participants are given a role dependant on the circle in which  they are placed.  The facilitator gives clear instruction relating to the purpose of the role play.  The participants are left in role for a short period of time then the facilitator calls 'time' at which point one of the circles of participants stand up and rotates starting the role play afresh with a new partner.