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PROBLEM POP

Problem solving
Medium
60 min / 90 min
10 / 30

Method author: contact@nfemethods.eu

Goal:

The goal of this method is to encourage participants to think creatively and collaboratively about solving problems. This exercise helps participants gain new perspectives on their own challenges and develop problem-solving skills.

Description:

“Problem Pop” is an interactive exercise where participants anonymously write down a personal problem or difficulty on a piece of paper, place it inside a balloon, and then exchange problems by popping the balloons. Participants then reflect on the problem they receive, think of potential solutions, and share their thoughts with the group. This method allows individuals to gain insights from others' perspectives and fosters a collaborative problem-solving environment.


Required materials
Additional:

Instruction
Step 1:

Distribute small pieces of paper and pens to each participant. Ask them to write down a problem or difficulty they are currently facing. Encourage them to be honest and specific and remind them that this exercise is anonymous.

Step 2:

Once participants have written down their problems, have them fold the paper and place it inside a balloon. Each participant should then blow up their balloon and tie it securely.

Step 3:

Collect all the balloons and mix them up. Place the balloons in a central area where everyone can see them.

Step 4:

One by one, each participant will come forward, select a balloon, and pop it. They will then read the problem inside the balloon and take a few minutes to reflect on how they would approach and solve the problem.

Step 5:

After a brief reflection, the participant will share the problem they received and their proposed solution with the group. Encourage them to explain their thought process and any strategies they would use.

Step 6:

Repeat the process until all participants have had a chance to pop a balloon, reflect on a problem, and share their thoughts with the group.

Step 7:

Facilitate a group discussion to reflect on the exercise. Encourage participants to share their thoughts on the different solutions proposed, how it felt to receive someone else's problem, and any insights they gained from the activity.


Additional tips:

• Create a supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere to help participants feel comfortable sharing their problems and solutions.
• Emphasize the anonymity of the exercise to ensure participants feel safe sharing their personal challenges.

• Encourage participants to be open-minded and considerate when proposing solutions to others' problems.

• Use the exercise as an opportunity to discuss the importance of empathy, creativity, and collaboration in problem-solving.

• Allow participants to ask follow-up questions or provide additional suggestions during the group discussion to enhance the collaborative learning experience.


Debriefing question
Were there any solutions proposed by others that you found particularly helpful or innovative?
How can the strategies discussed in this exercise be applied to real-life problem-solving situations?
Did this exercise change your perspective on your own problem? If so, how?
How did it feel to receive feedback and suggestions from others about your problem?

Files to download

No files available