diverge · Team Building, Communication, Empathy Building · 50 min · 4-20 people · medium energy
Story Circles
Story Circles create a safe space for participants to share personal stories related to their identities and experiences. This method promotes empathy, understanding, and connection within a group.
When to use Story Circles
Use this method to build trust and rapport within a team, especially when working on projects that require collaboration and understanding of diverse perspectives. It's also useful for addressing conflict or tension within a group.
What it solves
Lack of empathy and understanding between team members, difficulty communicating effectively, conflict arising from misunderstandings.
How to run Story Circles, step by step
- Provide quiet time for participants to reflect on a life story related to their position on the Wheel of Power (10 mins)
- Facilitator shares a personal story as a demonstration of vulnerability (5 mins)
- Divide the class into groups of four to form story circles (5 mins)
- Each participant shares their story (3 mins each), followed by 15-second flashbacks from each listener (20 mins)
- Debrief the experience as a large group (10 mins)
Materials needed
- Instructions for Story Circles handout
- Timer
- Quiet space
Facilitator tips
- Emphasize the importance of active listening without interruption or judgment.
- Model vulnerability by sharing your own story.
- Ensure that everyone has an opportunity to speak and be heard.
Common pitfalls
- Participants dominating the conversation. Enforce time limits and encourage active listening.
- Stories becoming too abstract or theoretical. Encourage participants to share personal experiences.
- Lack of trust within the group. Start with a shorter, less personal sharing activity to build trust.
Variations
- Use a different prompt for the stories.
- Extend the time for sharing and flashbacks.
- Incorporate a reflection activity after the story circles.
Running it online or hybrid
Use breakout rooms in video conferencing platforms. Emphasize active listening guidelines.
What it produces
Shared understanding of personal experiences, increased empathy and connection within the group.
Origin
Inspired by Deardorff, D. K. (2020). Manual for developing intercultural competencies: Story circles. — source
Build a session around Story Circles
METODIC places Story Circles inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.