Table Top Activity
by Deb Thomas
 Objective
For this activity participants will work in small groups at their tables to collaborate determining the best method or the most appropriate answer to a problem or issue.
Time Required
Times will vary depending on the activity. In some cases, participants may attempt to solve the problem before having all the information. After a lecture, or a review of printed materials, they may attempt to solve the problem or puzzle again.
Materials Required
- Flip chart for presenting topic and markers
- Review cards
- Legos, Tinker Toys, puzzles, dominos, building blocks, index cards
Instructions
- Give each table a stack of cards with words relating to the topic you are discussing. Example: Delegation Cards: Clear objectives, Feedback, Paraphrase, Deadline, etc.
- Ask each team to choose the 5 most important cards and write them on a flip chart. Ask each group to explain why they chose the words.
- Example: Distribute Legos or other “building materials” to each table group. Give brief, rather scanty, instructions and ask them to build a structure. Then, lecture on the topic of delegation and need for giving clear, decisive instructions that outline tasks, responsibilities and levels of authority. Now, repeat the original exercise but this time give the participants clear, well defined instructions on what their structure should look like when it is completed. Ask them to build the “structure” again with the new information. Compare the difference in the two structures and the two sets of instructions.
Debrief
- What did we learn?
- Why did we work on this activity?
- How will this information help you in your job?
Deborah Thomas is the owner of Silly Monkey. Deborah Thomas is an expert in developing powerful game-based serious play learning design. SillyMonkey motto: Learn fast, remember more and have fun doing it! www.sillymonkeyinternational.com.
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