Методологија за процену групне интеракције

This exercise-game, like part of other group interaction games, is also important in terms of creating partnerships, a sense of responsibility, improving communication, but also for preparing feedback from group members. It is important to give players the opportunity to analyze the behavior of each partner. This can be done by filming the entire meeting on a video camera and then discussing the film with the group. But the technique is not always at hand, and it can be unreliable. What to do in such a case?

I propose to use the «Machine» method — this is the name of the method for assessing group interaction. We will need two expert observers who will closely observe what is happening in each team from the first minutes of the game. (You can even give two experts for each team. This role is no less exciting, and the result of training is serious. An expert who has worked well and carefully receives no less emotional and practical material than builders!)

Expert observers monitor the work of the teams according to the worksheet. On it we see the image of the machine. Machine parts — a metaphorical definition of the player’s role in the group. Thus, by taking notes on the sheet during the exercise, the experts determine AT EACH STAGE (idea development and training, discussion of the results of the training, actual construction of the bridge) who in the group performed the role:

1) front lighting — looks ahead, thinks about the future;

2) back light — analyzes past experience, connected with the past;

3) nail (pierces the chamber) — creates problems, delays the effective movement of the machine;

4) springs — hides potholes (disputes, quarrels, irritation) of the road;

5) fuel — gives energy for movement;

6) engine — receives gasoline and turns ideas into practical action;

7) wheels — realize the desire of the engine to set the car in motion;

8) brakes — slows down movement, reduces speed;

9) steering — controls the movement, chooses a strategy, direction;

10) accessories — external decorations, absolutely useless in a practical sense;

11) bumper — takes a hit in a collision (interests, ambitions, ideas …);

12) flap — does not allow dirt to splatter other parts;

13) radiator — cools the engine, prevents it from boiling;

14) ligaments — a part that unites the front and rear parts of the machine body;

15) trunk — it has an important load, but to use it, you need to stop, get out of the car;

16) outside seat — during the entire trip remains outside and does not affect what happens.

At the end of the game, the experts present their metaphorical assessments to the participants. Before their verdict, it is useful to listen to the players themselves, as they think, what roles in the machine they themselves performed at different stages of the game. Then it will be interesting to compare their opinion with the opinion of expert observers.

By the way, a similar technique will be useful after the next exercise — «Journey of Dunno». Even thematically, it goes well with it!