|
A Game about Conflict
by Kevin Eikenberry
Goal:
Participants will identify the major factors and elements of conflict
Materials:
- A random object
- Several coins
- Newsprint, markers
Procedure:
Assemble the participants in a circle or around a table. Place any object in the middle where everyone can see it. Tell people that the object before them is not what it appears. They must invent a new identity and use for the object – anything other than what it really is. Give them 30 seconds. Ask each participant to state their version of what the object is and post on newsprint for reference.
Explain that they have five minutes to try to convince the other participants that their explanation of the object is correct. Encourage them to argue their perspective forcefully if necessary.
While the discussion is in progress, the facilitator should walk around and randomly give participants a coin. The value of the coins and the times they are given should be unpredictable. Take coins away from a player if you like.
After the five minute time period, lead a discussion.
Discussion Questions:
- What were some of your emotions as you tried to convince others of your point of view?
- What did you think about your ability to convince others?
- At what point did you feel most frustrated? Most successful?
- What interesting things did you see other players doing?
- What surprised you about how others played?
- At what point was the level of conflict most intense?
- What factors contributed to the level of conflict?
- What strategies or coping methods did people use to deal with conflict?
- What are both the positive and negative aspects of conflict?
- In what ways is this game like conflict in real life?
- What was the significance of giving coins to players?
- If the coins were a metaphor, what would they symbolize in real life?
- How would you play the game differently the next time?
- What if players didn’t receive any coins?
- What is one thing you might do differently in your work or professional life after playing this game?
- What are the three most important things you’ve learned about conflict from this game?
This game was developed, tested, and debriefed collaboratively by participants at the 2001 NASAGA Conference. For more information about NASAGA, go to http://www.nasaga.org.
© 2001 the North American Simulation and Gaming Association
|
