diverge · Perspective Taking, Empathy Building, Discussion · 30–60 min · 3-30 people · low energy

Circle of Viewpoints

The Circle of Viewpoints routine helps participants explore a topic or issue from multiple perspectives, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of diverse viewpoints. It encourages individuals to step outside their own assumptions and consider alternative ways of thinking.

When to use Circle of Viewpoints

Use this method when you need to broaden understanding of a complex issue, encourage empathy among team members, or generate new insights by considering different perspectives.

What it solves

Lack of understanding or empathy for differing opinions; Groupthink; Limited perspective on a problem.

How to run Circle of Viewpoints, step by step

  1. Introduce the topic or issue to be explored. (5 minutes)
  2. Individually, participants reflect on their own viewpoint regarding the topic. (5 minutes)
  3. Each participant chooses another stakeholder or perspective related to the topic and considers the issue from that viewpoint. (10 minutes)
  4. In a circle (physical or virtual), each participant shares the viewpoint they adopted, speaking in the first person as that stakeholder. (20-30 minutes)
  5. Facilitate a discussion to compare and contrast the different viewpoints, highlighting areas of agreement and disagreement. (10 minutes)

Materials needed

  • Paper or digital document for note-taking
  • Timer
  • Whiteboard or virtual whiteboard (e.g., Miro)

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage participants to fully embody the chosen perspective, even if they disagree with it personally.
  • Remind participants to listen respectfully to all viewpoints without interruption.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants struggling to detach from their own viewpoint. - Provide examples of different stakeholders and encourage empathy.
  • Dominant voices overshadowing quieter participants. - Use a talking stick or other method to ensure everyone has a chance to speak.

Variations

  • Assign specific viewpoints to participants beforehand.
  • Use visual aids or props to represent different stakeholders.
  • Combine with other perspective-taking activities, such as role-playing.

Running it online or hybrid

Use breakout rooms for individual reflection and shared documents (Google Docs, Miro) for sharing perspectives.

What it produces

A shared understanding of multiple perspectives on a given topic, documented in notes or a shared document.

Origin

Adapted from Project Zero's Visible Thinking Routines — source

Build a session around Circle of Viewpoints

METODIC places Circle of Viewpoints inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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