Brainstorming
Brainstorming is aimed at gathering a large number of uncensored ideas from participants.
It stimulates them to generate ideas without criticism. These ideas are often more
representative of participants’ real feelings and thoughts. Brainstorming is appropriate when:
- Beginning a session.
- Trying to solve a difficult problem.
- Participants need to change focus
- A group trust has been established.
- The facilitator is skilled in managing the brainstorming process.
Advantages- Stimulates creative thinking
- Generates many ideas
- Encourages free communication
- Enables group problem solving
Tips for improving the use of brainstorms:- Be sure to welcome all ideas
- Do not allow other participants to criticise or support ideas as they are raised
- Select the best ideas offered on an issue with the participants.
Demonstrations / Discussions
Demonstration is a training method in which participants do more talking than the facilitator
but with support from the facilitator whenever appropriate. Discussions, if conducted properly,
allow for maximum participation in the training session. Ensure that there is always a three-way
communication (that is, the facilitator should always be in the middle of a discussion between
participants, guiding the discussion).
Questions and Answers
Question and answer sessions are a quick way of assessing the training situation; and for
getting everyone to participate which can enhance learning. The main purpose is to help
participants, not to embarrass them. They should feel free to participate and should not feel
threatened if their answers are wrong.
If you, as the facilitator, happen not to know the answer, admit it, find the answer and share it
with participants later. Or you can use this as an opportunity to get them to do some research
themselves. Questions and answers are appropriate when:- Wanting to make a quick review of participants’ understanding.
- Starting a discussion.
- Alerting or getting participants’ attention.
- Wanting to get insights into participants’ attitudes and practices.
- Encouraging participants to study further.
Disadvantages- If rules are not clear, it can create confusion
- Time is wasted if the process is not
controlled - Needs responses to be written down quickly
Guide to Mobilising and Strengthening Community-Led Care for Orphans and Vulnerable Children Unit 2, Facilitator’s Guidelines^77