Ideation · beginner · 20 min

Surprise Brainstorm

This method guides participants in collaboratively generating a wide range of ideas for Sinterklaas surprises. Participants will leverage creative thinking and 'Yes, and...' principles to build upon each other's ideas, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.

What participants gain

  • Generate a wide range of creative ideas for Sinterklaas surprises.
  • Apply 'Yes, and...' principles to build upon each other's ideas.
  • Foster a collaborative and inclusive brainstorming environment.

Materials needed

  • Whiteboard or flip chart
  • Markers
  • Sticky notes
  • Timer
  • Examples of Sinterklaas surprises (optional)

How to run Surprise Brainstorm, step by step

  1. Introduce the activity and its purpose (5 min).
  2. Explain the 'Yes, and...' principle and its importance for collaborative brainstorming (2 min).
  3. Divide participants into a single group (1 min).
  4. Set a timer for 10 minutes and instruct participants to brainstorm ideas for Sinterklaas surprises, building upon each other's ideas using 'Yes, and...' (10 min).
  5. Facilitate a brief discussion to synthesize the ideas and identify common themes (2 min).
  6. Select three ideas to move forward with for the construction phase (1 min).
  7. Ensure all participants are on board with the selected ideas (1 min).
  8. Transition to the next phase, Surprise Construction, by introducing the next steps (1 min).

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage wild and unconventional ideas to spark creativity.
  • Use visual aids to stimulate different learning styles.
  • Remind participants to build upon each other's ideas using 'Yes, and...'.
  • Maintain a light and playful atmosphere to encourage participation.
  • Ensure equal participation by actively soliciting input from quieter members.

Common challenges

  • Participants struggle to generate ideas: Provide prompts and examples to stimulate thinking.
  • Dominant personalities overshadow others: Use a round-robin approach to ensure equal participation.
  • Participants are hesitant to share unconventional ideas: Emphasize the importance of 'Yes, and...' and create a safe space for sharing.
  • Participants get stuck on one idea: Encourage them to explore different perspectives and combinations.

Running it virtually

Use a virtual whiteboard tool like Miro or Mural for collaborative brainstorming. Encourage participants to use virtual sticky notes to share their ideas and build upon each other's contributions.

Expected results

Participants will generate a diverse range of creative ideas for Sinterklaas surprises. These ideas will serve as the foundation for the subsequent 'Surprise Construction' phase.

Build a session around Surprise Brainstorm

METODIC drops Surprise Brainstorm into a complete session plan with timing, materials, worksheets, and a facilitator guide — for any workshop, meeting, or team session.

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