open · Icebreaker, Team Building · 5–10 min · 3-8 people · medium energy
Wiki Journey
Wiki Journey is a fast-paced online game that sparks curiosity and friendly competition by challenging participants to navigate from one Wikipedia page to another using only hyperlinks. It's an engaging way to energize virtual meetings and foster connection.
When to use Wiki Journey
Use this method at the beginning of a virtual meeting to inject energy, encourage interaction, and promote quick thinking. It's particularly useful when you need a short, playful activity to re-engage participants.
What it solves
Low energy in virtual meetings, lack of engagement, need for a quick and fun icebreaker.
How to run Wiki Journey, step by step
- Gather participants in a virtual meeting. (2 minutes)
- Instruct everyone to open a web browser and navigate to the starting Wikipedia page (e.g., Nelson Mandela). Share the link in the chat. (1 minute)
- Announce the destination Wikipedia page (e.g., QANTAS). (30 seconds)
- Challenge participants to click hyperlinks on each page to reach the destination page. (5-7 minutes)
- The first person to reach the destination page and verify it wins.
Materials needed
- Internet access
- Web browser
- Starting and ending Wikipedia page URLs
- Chat function in virtual meeting platform
Facilitator tips
- Choose starting and ending pages that are somewhat related but not too easy to connect.
- Have a few backup starting/ending page combinations ready in case the first one is solved too quickly.
- Encourage participants to share their screens to show their progress and strategies.
Common pitfalls
- Participants getting stuck or frustrated if the connection is too obscure. - Provide hints or change the destination page if needed.
- Technical difficulties with internet access. - Offer alternative ways to participate, such as partnering with someone who has a stable connection.
Variations
- Allow participants to use search functions in addition to hyperlinks.
- Set a time limit and see who gets closest to the destination page.
- Create teams and have them work together to solve the journey.
Running it online or hybrid
Works well in virtual meetings using screen sharing and chat functions. Participants can share their screens to demonstrate their journey.
What it produces
A shared experience of navigating Wikipedia and a sense of accomplishment for the winner.
Origin
Created by Mark Collard, Playmeo — source
Build a session around Wiki Journey
METODIC places Wiki Journey inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.