Page 236 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 06 11/20/02 12:21 PM Page 225
Die or Color Cube Grouping Participants and Selecting Volunteers 225
Die
One truly random technique involves placing a
regular or large foam rubber die on each group’s
table. Instruct the participants in each group to
roll the die in turn, with the first person getting
a “6” first becoming the leader. Have them con-
tinue until someone gets a “1.” This person has
then “volunteered” to be the scribe.

Color Cube
A variation of the die is to use a color cube (see Creative
Training Resources in Resources for Trainers section in the ap-
pendices), which has different colors (instead of numbers). Designate the color that will
determine both the leader and scribe and have participants start rolling until someone
gets them.

Stickers

As with the technique for using various types of stickers to identify group members,
you can designate leaders and scribes in a similar fashion. The easiest way to accom-
plish this is to use colored or themed stickers on name tents as described earlier in this
chapter. To appoint leaders and scribes, either use a larger version of the stickers or a
second sticker added to name tent for each group. You may even want to put the extra
sticker underneath the folded name tent out of sight. Some “seasoned” session attendees
may see the dual stickers and shy away figuring that they must be there for a reason.

Markers

By placing identifying marks (e.g., letters, numbers, dots, and symbols) on participant
name tents or nametags, you can easily designate certain individuals from each group
to play specific roles.

Toys and Props

As with the use of various items to identify team members, you can also designate
leaders by placing special items at their seat locations. These items might be the same
thing everyone has, only differently colored, or they may be completely unique. By
using a “symbol of office” you can even have a bit of fun by having the item passed from
one volunteer to the next for various activities. The person with the “symbol” is visibly
either the leader or scribe. These items might be a special marker (e.g., jumbo size) for
the scribe, or a special toy for the leader (e.g., magic wand, paper crown, or some other
item associated with authority or power).