Description Long

This method focuses on raising awareness of existing knowledge. Ideally used in a classroom setting, the person sitting furthest to the east engages in a dialogue with the person sitting furthest to the west. During the conversation, they discuss their prior knowledge of a given topic. They then write down their newly formed, shared understanding on a sheet of paper. In this way, both participants benefit from each other’s expertise.

Duration of the discussion: 3 minutes

Duration of the documentation: 2 minutes

Preparation

• The seating arrangement should be clearly defined, and there should be sufficient space for dialogue.
• All that is needed is a pen and a sheet of paper, although noting ideas on a flipchart is also possible.
• Online: Ensure that private breakout rooms are available. Alternatively, the online plenary session can be moderated in such a way that conversations do not overlap.

Execution

1. Brief introduction to the method.
2. Assignment of pairs and explanation of the procedure.
3. Conducting the dialogue (3 minutes) and the documentation (2 minutes).

Hints from experience

• A highly effective method.
• Pairs should work with focus and avoid looking at what other pairs are doing.

Tools list

• Flipchart or Whiteboard
• Paper
• Paper and pencil

References

This method was created by Valentin Krasniqi, Lukas Bieri, Daniel Burri, Damir Hodzic und Sandro Suter.