Goal
- Participants gain an overview about the different aspects they associate with the different topics
- They inform each other on the diversity of associations with certain topics in their group or team
Preparation
Make sure that learners are in a relaxed and focused mood. Background music or inspiring decorations in the learning space may support this. For each group of three/four people, prepare 5 to 7 sheets with one word on each sheet in the center (font-size 36pt). Example words might include:
Steps
1. From small groups with 3 or 4 participants. While 2 or 3 people sit back-to-back on the floor, the third/fourth person receives a sheet with words.
2. The person with the sheet reads the first word out loud. The other 2 participants make free associations between the words, speaking them out loud. The person reading writes down the associations on the paper.
3. After 1 minute another is read and the process is repeated with all of the 5 to 7 sheets.
Reflection
Ask participants to analyze their word clouds.
- Which are the five most important or interesting associations on each sheet? Mark them.
Experiences
This method is a good starting point for a second step. For example, the most important aspects might be used for a project concept or as the main topic of an article.
