Page 223 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 06 11/20/02 12:21 PM Page 212
212 The Creative Training Idea Book
Recall the last time you attended a program and the facilitator decided to divide par-
ticipants into small groups for an activity or discussion and how they did it. To group
participants, many trainers revert to the old standby of “Let’s count from 1 to what-
ever . . .” Although this certainly is effective in determining who goes to which group,
my personal feeling (and that of many others I know) is that this technique is boring.
To accomplish the same results and provide a little variety and fun in your sessions,
try developing a varied repertoire of techniques for grouping people. You can do this by
thinking outside the box and using everyday items, toys, props, or whatever you have
available to identify individuals as members of a group.
To add a bit of anticipation and creativity to the course delivery, I try not to use the
same strategy twice in any one session. It also keeps me alert because I have to think of
what technique I’ll be using next.

GENERAL SUGGESTIONS
FOR GROUPING LEARNERS

Over the years, I have used dozens of approaches for grouping participants. I also use a
wide variety of items or props to help energize and add fun to the environment. With
most strategies I try to tie into the program theme when possible. For example, in a
customer service class, I might choose a toy or something else that comes in a variety of
colors and has a smile face on it.
Whatever item I use to separate participants must be available in multiple colors
and/or shapes and sizes. The total number of groups will determine how many differ-
ent colors or shapes, and how many of each, will be required. For example, if I wanted
to divide 24 participants into four equal groups, I’d need at least four shapes or colors.
I’d also need at least six of each shape/color (one for each participant). On the other
hand, if I wanted six groups of four people, I’d reverse my required numbers and colors/
shapes (six shapes/colors and four of each type).

PUTTING YOUR BRAIN TO WORK: ACTIVITY

Before we examine techniques for grouping participants, take a few minutes to think of techniques you
have used or seen others use in programs. Without looking at examples I’ve provided, list as many as you
can think of here or on a sheet of paper: