An easy method to use for making the beginning of the course more lively. It also works in groups where the participants are already familiar with each other.
< 20 pers.
10 – 15 min.
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Outline
Each participant chooses a meaningful item that belongs to him/her and places it on the table, e.g. piece of jewelery, key chain, pocket knife, wallet, or pen.
The trainer picks up one of these items. Its owner tells the group why he/she chose this particular item and what is its history, meaning, or purpose. Afterwards he/she picks the next item, and its owner continues the process.
Variation
The trainer places a variety of items on a table and each participant picks one item that appeals to him/her. Each participant then explains why he/she picked this particular item. This exercise can be linked to the course, for example, by asking the participants to explain how this item can help them in achieving the set objectives or overcoming a problem. The items should be very diverse, for example, pen, apple, band aid, nail, book, ball, cigarette, playing card, foreign coin, postcard, tea bag…
