“Let’s cooperate”

Aims of the tool

Objectives:

To enhance participants' cooperation skills.
To promote teamwork and mutual support.
To simulate a challenging situation that requires collective problem-solving.

Description of the tool

Description of the Activity:

Introduction (10 minutes):
Briefly explain the objective of the workshop: boosting cooperation and teamwork.
Describe the scenario: participants are on a sinking boat and must escape by crossing a taped boundary set at neck height, without leaving anyone behind.
Mention that the activity involves physical touch and ensure everyone is comfortable with this aspect.
Setting Up the Activity (10 minutes):
Use tape to create a boundary at neck height in a delimited area. Ensure the boundary is secure and safe.
Explain that all participants need to work together as a single group to escape the boat.
Activity Instructions (10 minutes):
Explain the rules: the entire group must help all its members cross the tape without touching it.
Emphasize the importance of teamwork and ensuring no one is left behind.
Set a time limit for the task (e.g., 30 minutes).
Execution of the Activity (30 minutes):
The group begins the activity, working together to find ways to cross the tape.
Facilitators observe, ensuring safety and providing minimal guidance to encourage problem-solving.
Debriefing and Discussion (20 minutes):
Gather all participants and facilitate a discussion on the activity.
Ask debriefing questions:
How did you feel during the activity?
What strategies did your group use to cross the tape?
How did you ensure everyone was included and no one was left behind?
What challenges did you encounter and how did you overcome them?
How can these teamwork skills be applied in building stronger communities?
Summary and Wrap-Up (10 minutes):
Summarize the key lessons learned from the activity.
Highlight the importance of cooperation and teamwork in community building.
Encourage participants to reflect on how they can apply these skills in their own communities.
Recommendations:

Ensure the tape boundary is securely fastened and at a safe height.
Mention at the start that the activity involves physical touch and ensure all participants are comfortable with it.
Be prepared to intervene if any safety issues arise.
Encourage creativity and support among participants.
Have a first aid kit available for any minor injuries.
Annexes:

Handouts with key points on teamwork and cooperation.
Links to further reading on building resilient communities.
Feedback forms for participants to provide input on the activity.