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The Time Machine

A simple but evocative prompt asking participants which era of history they would visit and why. It reveals personal interests, values, and historical curiosities.

10-15 min2-30 peopleEasy
When to Use

To transition the group into a creative mindset and encourage storytelling.

How It Works

Solves: Awkward silences at the start of a meeting or a 'dry' atmosphere.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to facilitate this method
  1. 1

    Step 1: Pose the question: 'If you could travel to any time period, where would you go?' (1 min).

  2. 2

    Step 2: Give 2 minutes of silent reflection or image searching (2 mins).

  3. 3

    Step 3: Facilitate a round-robin share or use breakout rooms for discussion (10 mins).

Facilitator Tips
  • Ask follow-up questions like 'What's the first thing you'd do there?' to deepen the engagement.
  • Keep it lighthearted.
Variations
  • Future Focus: Ask them to travel 100 years into the future instead of the past.
Source: General Facilitation PracticeLearn more