Purpose - to illustrate the importance of clear communication,
and allow the group to explore their communication style and make
improvements as necessary.
Materials and Preparation - 2 matching sets of children's
building blocks (e.g. Lego), with 10 blocks and 1 base board in
each set. Using one set of blocks, build a random object using the
10 blocks, onto the base board. Optional - 2 bags to contain each
set of building blocks.
Time - 45 mins
Group Size - minimum 3 people, up to about 7.
(Can have duplicate exercise running in parallel if group is larger,
but will need more sets of building blocks).
There are 4 roles in this communication skill game.
Person A - director
Person B - runner
Person C - builder
Person(s) D - observer(s)
Person A is given the built-up set of blocks, and is the only person
who can see the object. It is the director's job to give clear instructions
to person B, the runner, so that person C can build an exact replica
of the model.
Person B listens to the director's instructions and runs to a different
part of the room to where person C is sitting. The runner then passes
on the building instructions, without seeing the building blocks,
to Person C, the builder. The runner can make as many trips as required
within the time allowed for the exercise.
Person C listens to the runner's instructions and builds the object
from the set of building blocks. The builder is the only person
who can see the object under construction, and building materials.
Person(s) D observe the communication game, and make notes about
what works, what doesn't work, and how people behaved under pressure
etc., to pass onto the group later.
Set a time limit for the exercise of 10 minutes.
When the time is up, allow the group to compare the model and the
replica, and see how closely it matches. Generally, the replica
will bear little resemblance to the original, which usually causes
heated discussion!
Allow the group to reflect on how the exercise went, and agree 1
thing they did well, 1 thing that didn't work, and 1 thing they
would do better next time.
Run the exercise again, either switching or keeping original roles,
and see if any improvements have been made. Make sure you de-construct
the "original" model and create a new design!
This simple communication skill game can be run many times without
losing learning potential. Teams can add layers of sophistication
to their communication by making use of aids such as diagrams, codes,
standard procedures and using active listening techniques.
Download
'Building Blocks Communication Skill Game' in pdf format
