Page 75 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 02 11/20/02 11:37 AM Page 64
64 The Creative Training Idea Book
or similar retail store. Create a list of key session terms or other information on your
computer, print multiple copies (on different colored paper), and then cut them to the
shapes of the puzzle pieces. Paste these cutouts to the face or back of the puzzle you
purchased. When you are ready for an activity, pass out the puzzles and have partici-
pants work in small groups to solve the puzzle, thus revealing key terms that they then
discuss within their group or as a class. A variation of this activity is to create a number
of puzzles with differing content on the pieces. You will need one puzzle for each small
group that you have. Put each puzzle into a small paper bag; however, take two pieces
from each puzzle to mix into another team’s bag. Each team will then have pieces be-
longing to another team. Do not tell teams of the missing pieces. Specify a time limit,
then tell participants that their goal is to complete their puzzle using whatever means
they need to. Someone will eventually realize what is going on and will start checking
with other groups. This type of activity encourages creativity, thinking out of the box,
communication, negotiation, time management, and a number of other skills.

Crossword and Word Search Puzzles
These types of puzzles are nonthreatening, fun ways to conduct a pre- or post-session
test without causing test anxiety. They can also be used a session interim, such as in this
chapter, and final reviews. During a session, you might use one of these puzzles to in-
troduce key concepts or objectives that will be discussed during the session by having
the clues for the puzzle mirror those key concepts.
To create crossword or word search puzzles, you can either purchase computer soft-
ware that will make up a puzzle along with an answer key from terms that you input
(see Crossword Puzzle Software in the Resources for Trainers in the appendices) or you
can manually create them with pen and paper. As participants complete the puzzles,
they naturally reflect on what was learned and recognize the terms, thus reinforcing the
learning and aiding memory.
To get creative ideas for other types of puzzles such as word match that you might
create or use, visit teacher supply stores or bookstores in your area, or log onto the Inter-
net to search under the heading puzzles or to check online booksellers (see Resources for
Trainers in the appendices). These companies sell books and magazines with puzzles
and activities for use by children and in schools that can be modified for adult learning
environments. You can also visit local libraries and search their shelves.

PUTTING YOUR BRAIN TO WORK: ACTIVITY

How can you begin using crossword and word search puzzles in you programs?

What types of puzzles do you believe will work best for your training topics? Why?