ABC-Method

The ABC-Method can be used to gather knowledge of a group, by associating terms to a given theme. The reflection of personal experience can be used to gather ideas in big groups. The method is suitable to loosen up groups and getting to know each other.

Organisation

  • Duration
    Short (up to 30 minutes)
  • Complexity
    Simple
  • Group size
    1 to 20 persons

This activity is not suitable online.

Description Long

For the ABC-Method you need to divide the participants into groups. The participants gather in their start positions, for example around tables with writing material on them. On different tables they can find cards with each letter of the alphabet on them. The cards should have the letters facing down. The challenge is for a participant to run to the table with the alphabet and bring one card back to the group. In a next step the group has to find a term or idea matching this letter, as fast as possible. If the group found a term, it is the next participants turn to run to the table and get a new card. The game is over when the first group has written down a term or idea to each letter. This way ideas to a topic can be gathered in a playful manner.

Preparation

  1. Enough space.
  2. Position tables, or define start and goal respectively.
  3. Provide writing utensils for each group (start).
  4. Provide ABC-Cards for each group (goal).

Execution

  1. Form 2 (or more) groups.
  2. Start courier.

Hints from experience

When using this method it can get very noisy. Be aware of your environment and make sure not to disturb others.

Tools list

  • Papier cards (blank)
  • Writing utensils, pen, pencil
  • Paper and pencil

References

wikis.zum.de/zum/ABC-Methode

erwachsenenbildung.at/aktuell/nachrichten_details.php

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