POSTCARDS

Description of the tool

Step-by-step description:
1.Give each small group of three to five members a postcard. You can copy and cut the examples below, or you can devise your own. (See the notes.) Ask each group to come up with a series of tableaux to represent the card’s message. With each image they should create a sound-effect which they feel sums up its core emotion or feeling. (15 minutes)
2.The groups share their tableaux. The audience for each tableau give an account of what they think might be written on the card. Only then do the demonstrating group read out their card. (15 minutes)
3.Some groups might feel that they did not quite capture the essence of their card, or that their tableau was misinterpreted. These groups could go back and, taking on board suggestions from the audience, try to improve or change their work. (Extra time needs to be allocated for this.)

Reflection and evaluation:
How do they group feel about the issues raised by the cards? What action would they take if they were in similar circumstances? Are there similar things happening today? If so, what action are people taking? If participants were to sum up each card in one sentence, what would it be? (10 minutes)

Comments:
It is important for the facilitator to choose cards which cover a subject matter appropriate to the group. The group could develop this work and produce their own postcards or posters.