The students are assigned different roles within their groups, which they “play” while brainstorming.
The method supports unleashing students’ creativity through a playful approach.
1
Give students pieces of paper or post-its to brainstorm on.
2
Present to the students, or remind them of, what they are going to brainstorm on.
3
Assign the following roles to the members of each group:
- Pace Master – Keeps the energy and tempo high. Says things like:
“Come on, we can come up with more ideas!” and “Yes, we’re on a roll!” - Support Master – Encourages and lifts the group. Says things like:
“Great idea!”, “Nice thinking!” and “Yes, we’ve got this!” - Crazy Idea Master -Supports the group in daring to share “crazy” or out-of-the-box ideas. Says things like:
“Let’s think of something wild!” and “That’s crazy in a good way!” - Connection Master – Looks for ways to connect and build on the group’s ideas. Says things like:
“That idea made me think of…” and “If we combine these two ideas, then…”
4
Have the group brainstorm for a set amount of time, or until they have come up with a certain number of ideas.
Didactic tips
- Experiment with different roles, such as a turn master who ensures everyone contributes, a timekeeper who keeps track of the time, and a focus master who intervenes if the group goes “off track.”
- Optionally, provide artifacts for the different roles — such as hats or armbands — to symbolize each role.