diverge · Ideation, Problem Solving · 30–60 min · 4-40 people · medium energy

Generate-Sort-Connect-Elaborate

Generate-Sort-Connect-Elaborate is a thinking routine that encourages participants to explore a topic by first generating individual ideas, then collaboratively organizing them, identifying connections, and finally elaborating on the key insights. This method fosters deeper understanding and collaborative knowledge building around complex subjects.

When to use Generate-Sort-Connect-Elaborate

Use this method when you need a structured approach to explore a complex topic, synthesize diverse perspectives, and build a shared understanding within a group. It's particularly useful after a presentation or reading material to help participants process and internalize the information.

What it solves

Surface-level understanding of complex topics; lack of synthesis of diverse perspectives; individual ideas not building into collective insights.

How to run Generate-Sort-Connect-Elaborate, step by step

  1. **Generate (10 minutes):** Individually, participants generate ideas, questions, or reflections related to the topic on sticky notes (one idea per note).
  2. **Sort (15 minutes):** In small groups (3-5 people), participants collaboratively sort the sticky notes into categories or themes. Discuss the rationale behind the groupings.
  3. **Connect (15 minutes):** Within each group, identify and draw connections between the different categories or themes. Discuss how these connections deepen understanding of the topic.
  4. **Elaborate (10 minutes):** Each group selects one or two key connections and elaborates on their significance. What new insights or questions arise from these connections? Share with the larger group.

Materials needed

  • Sticky notes
  • Markers
  • Large paper or whiteboard
  • Timer
  • Optional: colored pens for connecting ideas

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage participants to be concise and focused when generating ideas.
  • Ensure that the sorting process is collaborative and that all voices are heard.
  • Help groups identify meaningful connections rather than superficial ones.

Common pitfalls

  • Superficial sorting: Ensure participants delve deeper into the meaning behind the categories.
  • Lack of participation: Encourage quieter members to contribute during the sorting and connecting phases.
  • Rushing the elaboration phase: Allow sufficient time for groups to explore the implications of their connections.

Variations

  • Use different sorting criteria (e.g., importance, feasibility, impact).
  • Have groups present their elaborated insights to the entire group.
  • Use a digital whiteboard for remote collaboration.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a shared digital whiteboard like Miro or Mural for generating, sorting, and connecting ideas. Facilitate breakout rooms for smaller group discussions during the connection and elaboration phases.

What it produces

A collaboratively organized set of ideas with identified connections and elaborated insights.

Origin

From Harvard Project Zero's Visible Thinking Routines — source

Build a session around Generate-Sort-Connect-Elaborate

METODIC places Generate-Sort-Connect-Elaborate inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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