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BRAINSTORMING ON BORDERS

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Learning from each other about the potential perceptions of borders and through this, learning also about each others' different approaches and lived experiences

KEYWORDS

  • brainstorming

  • visual expression of thoughts

  • exchange

  • co-creation

DURATION

1 hour

SKILLS

  • drawing skills

  • storytelling and communication skills

  • critical thinking

  • empathy

  • listening

  • changing perspectives

PREPARATION

Empathy and coordination skills are needed. Basic drawing skills are an advantage. Trainers need to acknowledge their participants, and be aware of their particular situations; they need to be able to help them out in case if they have difficulties to express themselves, or draw some ideas.They need to be ready to stop participants if their contribution hurts others feelings.

TOOLS AND MATERIALS


  • Flip-chart or board

  • tools for writing on it

  • if the training is online: a MIRO board is needed.

DESCRIPTION

1. Prepare and Introduce: - Write main questions on the whiteboard or flip chart - Discuss the questions with participants


2. Drawing: - Invite participants one by one to come to the whiteboard - Have them draw something relevant to each of the questions - Allow them to explain the reasons and context of their drawing - If they have difficulty drawing, encourage them to write a word or ask for help from others - Encourage participants to listen to each other and ask questions


3. Summary: - Summarize the results based on the drawings - Invite participants to comment on them or add their ideas - Encourage them to share their feelings during the exercise

BLENDED ELEMENTS/TUTORIAL

The activity is included into the tutorial "City Tour for Overcoming Borders"


A possible blended version of the activity could involve asking people to collect images or take photos that relate to each of the questions, either in their neighbourhood, their home, or anywhere else. They can then bring these visual elements to the discussion and be asked to prepare accompanying stories to share.

TIPS AND RECOMMANDATIONS

If drawing seems too complicated, particularly in the case of online training, participants can still express their thoughts and feelings by providing photos, paintings, or other visual elements. Alternatively, if the group is too large or if individuals have difficulty expressing themselves in front of everyone, the activity can be done in smaller groups. In this case, participants discuss and draw for all the questions, and then one person can report the results of the discussion in a plenary session. It is important to be mindful of not overwhelming the participants by raising too many questions.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

A list of drawings and explanations will be presented on the whiteboard, showcasing various perspectives on the understanding of borders. The main outcome will be captured in a photo or short video presentation.

REFERENCES AND USEFUL SOURCES

Check out the learning path we have set up with visual brainstorming here.

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