explore · Problem Solving, Strategy, Dialogue · 105 min · 15-25 people · medium energy

Volcano of Change

The Volcano of Change helps groups explore complex issues by categorizing them based on their urgency and visibility, fostering dialogue and shared understanding. It uses a volcano metaphor to visualize societal challenges and encourage reflection on personal connections to broader themes.

When to use Volcano of Change

Use this method when you need to facilitate a group's understanding of a complex topic, identify shared concerns, and build a foundation for collaborative action. It's particularly useful for exploring societal issues, academic disciplines, or shifting paradigms.

What it solves

Lack of shared understanding of complex issues, difficulty connecting individual concerns to broader societal themes, superficial discussion without deeper reflection

How to run Volcano of Change, step by step

  1. Mapping Societal Issues (30 mins) - Introduce the Volcano Metaphor and ask participants to individually reflect on issues related to the central topic, noting observations, feelings, thoughts, and responses in a journal.
  2. Categorizing Issues by Urgency (20 mins) - In small groups, have participants share their identified issues and categorize them into the four volcano stages (dormant, active, erupting, extinct), placing sticky notes on a shared Volcano poster.
  3. Making Sense of the Volcano Map (20 mins) - Facilitate a whole-group discussion to clarify the issues, reflect on group perspectives, and identify key themes emerging from the Volcano poster.
  4. Group Reflection and Meaning-Making (20 mins) - Form new groups based on shared interest in a specific issue and have them deepen the discussion by exploring observations, emotions, interpretations, and possible actions.
  5. From Awareness to Action (15 mins) - Bring the group back together for a plenary discussion to share insights, explore possibilities for change, and encourage individual reflection on how to apply these insights moving forward.

Materials needed

  • Volcano Stages handout
  • Volcano poster
  • Sticky notes
  • Markers
  • Reflective journals or paper
  • Tape (for physical poster)

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage vulnerability and open sharing during the reflection stages.
  • Vary the working modes to keep participants engaged (individual reflection, small group discussion, whole group discussion, movement).

Common pitfalls

  • Superficial categorization of issues without deeper reflection - Encourage participants to explore the underlying emotions and interpretations associated with each issue.
  • Dominant voices overshadowing quieter participants - Use techniques to ensure everyone has an opportunity to share their perspectives.

Variations

  • Adapt the volcano stages to fit the specific context or topic being explored.
  • Use different visual metaphors instead of a volcano, such as an iceberg or a tree.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a shared digital whiteboard like Miro or Mural to create a collaborative volcano poster. Utilize breakout rooms for small group discussions and reflection.

What it produces

A visual map of issues categorized by their urgency and visibility on a "volcano" diagram, along with shared insights and identified key themes.

Origin

Adapted from Transition Makers Toolbox, inspired by ICA-UK's Technology of Participation — source

Build a session around Volcano of Change

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

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