Session IV

Topic: Create the Space

Introduction: One of the ways to create space for the World Café is to have fun in the workshop. There are many serious ways to make that happen and it is work for community animators to set it up, but FUN is definitely on the agenda. It's also important to express yourself and encourage others to contribute as well. You will provide paper tablecloths for doodling, writing and drawing. You will welcome people and encourage their commitment. As you think about creating the workshop space, think about when you have felt welcome somewhere. What were the key ingredients? Once we have created a welcoming space, a learning environment should be on its way. For supplemental reading, see Resources.

Objectives: By the end of this session, you will

• Know how to create a welcoming space
• Know how to create a learning environment

Notes for Animators

As Abdikarim and Anita Animator worked on the planning for the event, they were a little surprised how much fun they were having. After all, their topic was serious. Important. Especially, they weren't used to drawing their ideas. But something magic happened when they picked up the colored markers. They got excited trying to describe what they were thinking about and made an elaborate drawing of their ideas. They also had fun showing their drawings & doodles to other people. They remembered that the drawing they were doing wasn't about being a great artist, but about expressing themselves. By drawing, they were able to describe an idea they had.

Can you use the paint program on your computer, or grab some colored markers or crayons and draw a picture about what you're learning. What ideas are you getting? You'll never know until you pick up the marker and start.

Journal Question: What do you think of the idea of having fun at a workshop? Is it a good idea? It may be different from what we learned to do in school. Draw. Doodle. Or Write your answer.

Materials needed: flip charts & stands, paper table cloths, colorful markers, pens, table decorations. Coffee, snacks. Lunch. Create a fun, relaxing atmosphere. See Pictures

Reflection: We are suggesting that fun is an important part of welcoming people to a workshop and for learning. We need to think about what makes something fun for the people in our community.

 

Handout (PDF)

Next Session: Questions