1. Narrow down the issue. What do you want the group to explore?
-- conflict management
-- communication
-- problem solving
-- demonstrating respect
2. Define the exact task you want the group to work on or the behavior you want the group to exhibit.
3. Provide written directions to supplement oral instructions.
4. Describe the product you want the group to construct.
- a list of rules - a set of questions
- a table - a chart
- a diagram - a set of observations
- a journal entry - notes
- to define the problem - possible solutions
- to answer the question "What would you do?"
5. Establish the group size. (pairs for compare/contrast assignments, three for analytical tasks, five to seven for creative tasks)
6. Determine the best mix of group members.
male/female
managers/staff
community members/staff
7. Set time limits for completing the task.
8. Appoint a group leader, or have the group select its own.
9. Ensure adequate time for feedback or processing. Respond to questions or comments raised in the group work.
What key points were made in the discussion?
What kind of questions were raised?
What follow-up questions can you ask?
What solutions were offered?
What elements of planning were revealed?
What problems were identified?
How can these "prime the pump" of good thinking?
Guidelines for Active Learning Strategies
