Wise Crowds
Wise Crowds is a facilitation method that leverages collective intelligence and peer support to address individual challenges. Participants take turns acting as a 'client', presenting a personal challenge to a group of 'consultants' who offer insights and advice. This method fosters skill development in asking for and giving help, while building supportive relationships.
How to run it
- 1
Arrange participants into small groups of 4-5, with chairs in a circle.
- 2
Each participant takes a turn as the 'client', describing a challenge they face.
- 3
The 'consultants' ask clarifying questions for 3 minutes.
- 4
The client turns around and listens as consultants discuss advice and recommendations for 8 minutes.
- 5
The client then provides feedback on what was useful, taking 2 minutes.
Tips
Ensure a diverse mix of participants to maximize varied perspectives.
Encourage consultants to focus on the client's direct experience and avoid jumping to conclusions.
Remind everyone to participate actively, both as clients and consultants.
Variations
For a variation, restrict consultants to only ask open, honest questions without giving direct advice, known as Q-Storming. This can also be adapted for virtual settings using chat functions for feedback.
Where it fits
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Try it freeMethod descriptions on Workshop Weaver are original content written by our team, based on established facilitation practices. This method was inspired by work from Liberating Structures. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.