Description Long

Catchwords attract attention and stimulate the recipient's mental processes that call for emotional reactions and associations. The catchword-method activates creative processes by generating random terms. It enables casual association and the ability to make new associations. The method uses time pressure and a playful contest between the participants, to help them overcome critical thinking and to foster their ability to make spontaneous and free associations. To do so, you name a catchword and let the participants write down as many terms as they can think of, within 30 seconds.

Illustration

Preparation

1. Choose 3-5 catchwords that fit to the topic of the workshop.
2. Make sure to have a timer, or similar, ready.

Execution

1. Explain the method to the participants and mention the idea of quantity.
2. Name a catchword and stop the time.
3. The participant with the most terms should share them with the group.
4. Repeat the exercise 3-5 times using different catchwords.

Hints from experience

Choose the catchwords in a way that allows easy association, e.g. nature, holiday.

Tools list

• Sticky notes
• Writing utensils, pen, pencil
• Stopwatch

References

http://www.innovationsmethoden.info/methoden/reizwortmethode

http://thedeconstruction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/words1.jpg