ABCD-Training-of-Trainers-Tools-July-2013

Pairs
Small Groups
Popcorn
Buzz Group
Plenary
Go around
Prayer
Check-in
Ground rules
Fish bowl
Time prompts
Form
Storm
Group Dynamics
Share with a partner: it is useful when there is a short time available and you want
both to have chance to speak. This can be nicely combined with ‘fish bowl’
(explained below).
Enables participation but can be time consuming for report backs. The number of
groups should depend on the size of the group (5 –6 is optimal) and the time
available.
Allow for random responses in plenary without any order or direction from the
facilitator
A short, 2 minute brainstorm or discussion with a partner or in threes, which
allows facilitators to get a quick gauge where the group is in their understanding
about a particular topic
Open space where everyone is present to share and listen. It is an important
mechanism for building shared understanding and consensus within the group,
but tends to be dominated by a few voices. It can be mixed with pairs, buzz, go
around (explained below) or other techniques to make the training more
participatory.
Each person has the chance to speak
Prayer often creates positive energy and brings people to a common ground. It
should not be imposed and the group should decide if and how they pray. This
may not be appropriate if there are people of different beliefs (or no beliefs) or if
deep divisions exist between religions.
Each person shares how they are feeling generally and about the process either in
plenary (time allowing) or in pairs/check in groups. The tool helps to build the
group dynamic and is also important for surfacing unexpected issues, questions or
areas where there is a need for more clarity. Check ins help to guide the process.
This is a common practice to set guidelines for the group process like respect,
listening, participation, punctuality, confidentiality (and reminding people to turn
their cell phones off!). Setting ground rules are not always necessary, however,
because they often tend to be common sense.
An inner circle of chairs is created facing outwards. Opposite the inner circle is an
outer circle of chairs facing inwards. Participants sit opposite one another and the
facilitator poses a question for them to discuss before rotating either the inner or
outer circle so that people swop places. Within a short period of time, participants
are able to interact and the movement often creates positive energy.
Use when one participant is dominating or when there are signs of boredom
The group is still forming and has a positive (though superficial) dynamic. People
are being cautious and trying to make a good impression.
People relax and start to show more of themselves and their true thoughts and
feelings. Cliques, gossip and conflict can sometimes arise as people become more
honest and open and challenge one another’s worldviews. Sometimes storming is
provoked by someone leaving or joining the group.