The very nature of group activities models a vital premise – every individual is important to the success of the group.By planning and preparing for interaction, the presenter demonstrates that conversation, collaboration, congeniality andcolleagialtyare integral to the culture of the group.
7/5/2009
Sue A. Davis, DAGC
1
Everyone is Important !
EveryoneIsImportant
Group Dynamics
Well chosen activities can foster better group dynamics so the meeting starts or proceeds smoothly.Carefully selected activities can help set the climate.People form impressions quickly – whether it is an impression of a person or a meeting. It is very difficult to change perceptions. Savvy presenters and facilitators will set a positive impression from beginning to end and during a meeting.
7/5/2009
Sue A. Davis, DAGC
2
EveryoneIsImportant
Icebreakers
Short, interactive “games” that help start off a meeting.Introductory exercises.Reduce inherent tension participants feel at the beginning of a learning session.Allow presenter to gauge the level of the audience’s willingness to participate in activities.
7/5/2009
Sue A. Davis, DAGC
3
EveryoneIsImportant
Characteristics ofIcebreakers
Allow people to meetHelp participants become better acquainted with each otherCreate a positive group atmosphereHelp people to relaxBreak down social barriersEnergize and motivateCapture attentionIntroduce material and / or illustrate new concepts or ideasStimulate creative thinking
7/5/2009
Sue A. Davis, DAGC
4
EveryoneIsImportant
Icebreakers inOther Situations
Before delivering unpopular news (layoffs, change in strategy, elimination of a program or product line, changes in compensations or benefits,et al).Conflict in a group that causes the group to be stymied.Participants suffering from “information overload”.New leadership addressing the group.
7/5/2009
Sue A. Davis, DAGC
5
EveryoneIsImportant
Energizers
Very short activities.Designed to wake up, refocus, and invigorate participants after a long session of information “getting.”Based on brain research.
7/5/2009
Sue A. Davis, DAGC
6
EveryoneIsImportant
CharacteristicsofEnergizers
Usually require large muscle movements from the participants.May be loud and boisterous.Could utilize music, dance, exercise and humor.Last no longer than 5 minutes.
7/5/2009
Sue A. Davis, DAGC
7
EveryoneIsImportant
Energizer Cautions
Get to know your participants before selecting an energizer.Have several energizers at hand in case of participants who may be disabled or unwilling to do certain movements.Directions are given verbally – seldom written or handed out. Give instructions well.Have a way to exit the activity and transition back to the lesson.
7/5/2009
Sue A. Davis, DAGC
8
EveryoneIsImportant
Team Building Activities
Designed to solve an organizational problem.Based on and builds mutual trust.Reinforces shared mission and common purpose.According to the activity and the problem, generates real world accomplishment.
7/5/2009
Sue A. Davis, DAGC
9
EveryoneIsImportant
Team BuildingCharacteristics
Complementing adult learning theory, team building activities acknowledge the interests and expertise of participants.By focusing on real work, participants are more likely to invest themselves in the process and solution to the problem presented.Mutual accountability and trust become evident as the team meets success together.Team building activities take time during the meeting.
7/5/2009
Sue A. Davis, DAGC
10
EveryoneIsImportant
Team BuildingActivities - Reality
These activities are very difficult to design.Many adults have experienced team building activities over time and may be suspicious of them, or they may have seen the activity before.Preparation requires a great deal of time.Objectives, instructions, props and products must be succinctly stated.
7/5/2009
Sue A. Davis, DAGC
11
EveryoneIsImportant
Our teammates and table groups need me.I bring experiences to the dialogue that no one else has.My expertise deepens the discussions of issues and problems.
7/5/2009
Sue A. Davis, DAGC
12
You and I are Important !
EveryoneIsImportant
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