Laying the Foundation

Team Building

Ice Breakers | Team Contract Guidelines | Trust Activities | Group Challenges | Debriefing Tips | Resources

Debriefing and discussion make the difference between "just a game" and an effective learning experience. But remember: debriefing without purpose is simply random discussion. Plan the discussion carefully. Choose a few questions. Order them, and keep the discussion focused around them.

Don't try to deal with several questions at once. Make sure questions are clear and simple. Provide a brief pause immediately following the experience. This allows participants to get out of their roles if they have just been through a game. Often the intent of debriefing activities is to surface feelings in order to help participants reflect more effectively on their most recent task.

"Circle Checks/Rounds"

• Newspaper Headline: used to highlight individual experiences during the last group task.
• Thumbs: Up/Great success, Middle/Okay, Down/I had a terrible time on the last task
• Whip: one word or phrase that sums up their last experience
  • To process any experience: have group members complete some of the following sentences.
  • I learned today…
  • I was afraid when…
  • When I'm frustrated I usually…
  • I liked…
  • I disliked…
  • I'm unhappy when…
  • I feel good when…
  • When I'm mad I…
  • Favourite place is…
  • Something I never told anyone is…
  • What people like best in me…
  • I'd like my parents to…
  • I'm concerned about…
  • Other people in this group…
  • I usually avoid…
  • What I hate most…

Closure:

A closure discussion is important for the group to reflect upon the entire experience and recognizes its accomplishments as a group.

For specific examples of debriefing questions and more information on how to lead a successful debriefing session, please refer to Processing the Adventure Experience: Theory and Practice by R. Nadler and J. Luckner (1992) Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company.