Training games represent an important part of a trainer’s toolkit that allows the trainer to foster communication, enhance interaction, creativity and learning, and energize group formation.
Listening Games are best used at the start of the session and should take no more than 5 - 15 minutes depending on the size of the group.
Drawing A Picture
Objectives
To increase listening skills within the group.
Method
The trainer provides all the participants with pens and paper.
The trainer then describes an object which the participants have to draw. To illustrate
- Draw a circle
- Below the circle draw a square
- To the right of the square, draw a second circle that intersects with the first circle
- Now draw a line from the middle of the first circle to the middle of the square
The trainer can then discuss with the group, the value of the exercise in terms of communication and listening skills.
Make A Story
Objectives
To increase listening skills within the group.
Method
This game is similar to the chain message outlined above and is best suited to small groups
While sitting in a small circle, participants are asked to construct a story by each participant adding one line at a time (e.g., As he got off his horse, he saw a big rabbit).
This continues with each additional participant adding another line until everyone has contributed at least two lines.
There are many variations to this game but it highlights the value of listening to others.
Whose Listening Anyway!
Objectives
To increase listening skills within the group.
Method
The group is divided into pairs and asked to talk simultaneously on a topic (e.g., everything they did last Monday).
After a few minutes, bring the groups to together and discuss how it can be difficult to listen when others are talking.
Also discuss with the group the strategies that individuals use to keep talking and avoid listening.
