I Used to Think... Now I Think...
This routine encourages participants to reflect on their initial understanding of a topic and then articulate how their thinking has evolved after new information or experiences. It's a simple yet powerful way to make learning visible and promote deeper understanding.
Use this method after a presentation, training session, or significant discussion to help participants consolidate their learning and identify areas where their perspectives have shifted.
Solves: Superficial learning, lack of critical reflection, failure to integrate new information
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Step 1: Introduce the routine and explain its purpose (2 minutes).
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Step 2: Ask participants to individually write down what they 'Used to Think' about the topic on a sticky note or in a digital document (5 minutes).
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Step 3: After the presentation/discussion/experience, ask participants to write down what they 'Now Think' about the topic on a separate sticky note or in the digital document (5 minutes).
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Step 4: Facilitate a brief sharing session where participants can share their 'Before' and 'After' thoughts with a partner or the whole group (5 minutes).
- Encourage honest and open reflection.
- Emphasize that there are no right or wrong answers.
- Use different prompts, such as 'I used to believe... Now I believe...' or 'I used to assume... Now I understand...'
- Have participants share their reflections in small groups before sharing with the whole group.