review · Feedback · 15–30 min · 2-40 people · low energy

Connect, Extend, Challenge

Connect, Extend, Challenge is a reflective thinking routine that encourages participants to consider new information or experiences by connecting it to prior knowledge, extending their understanding, and identifying remaining challenges or questions. It fosters deeper engagement and critical thinking by prompting learners to actively process and synthesize information.

When to use Connect, Extend, Challenge

Use this method after a presentation, workshop, or learning experience to help participants consolidate their understanding and identify areas for further exploration. It's particularly useful when you want to encourage critical reflection and identify gaps in knowledge.

What it solves

Passive listening and lack of engagement during presentations or learning sessions; Superficial understanding of complex topics.

How to run Connect, Extend, Challenge, step by step

  1. Introduce the routine (2 minutes). Explain the three categories: Connect (how does this connect to what you already know?), Extend (what new ideas did you get?), and Challenge (what's still challenging or confusing?).
  2. Individual reflection (5-10 minutes). Have participants individually write down their thoughts for each category.
  3. Small group discussion (5-10 minutes). Divide participants into small groups to share their reflections and discuss common themes.
  4. Whole group sharing (3-5 minutes). Facilitate a brief whole group discussion to highlight key insights and address remaining challenges.

Materials needed

  • Whiteboard or flip chart
  • Markers
  • Sticky notes (optional)
  • Handout with Connect, Extend, Challenge categories (optional)
  • Timer

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage participants to be specific in their reflections.
  • Create a safe space for participants to share their challenges and questions.
  • Summarize the key insights and action items that emerge from the discussion.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants struggle to differentiate between the categories. Provide clear examples and prompts to guide their thinking.
  • Discussion becomes superficial. Encourage participants to delve deeper into their reflections and share specific examples.

Variations

  • Use different prompts to guide reflection, such as 'What surprised you?' or 'What are you curious about?'
  • Have participants create visual representations of their reflections, such as mind maps or diagrams.
  • Use this routine as a pre-assessment to gauge participants' prior knowledge and identify learning needs.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a shared document or online whiteboard (Miro, Mural) for participants to record their thoughts in each category. Facilitate discussion via video conferencing.

What it produces

A collection of individual or group reflections organized into three categories: Connections, Extensions, and Challenges.

Origin

From Project Zero's Visible Thinking Routines — source

Build a session around Connect, Extend, Challenge

METODIC places Connect, Extend, Challenge inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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