Inspire Team

What Could It Be?

by for .  
#design thinking#transforming systems
60 - 90
3

Goal

"What Could It Be?" is a creative and innovative activity where learners work in small groups to transform a chosen item into various imaginative concepts. Each group generates a list of at least 25 ideas, and then other groups challenge them to bring one of those ideas to life. Don’t let the groups know in advance that they will have to create one of the items on their list - that may limit their imagination. This activity fosters problem-solving, teamwork, and out-of-the-box thinking.

NOTE: This activity is recommended for in-person groups only. 


Adapting the Activity for Module: Transforming Systems

To adapt "What Could It Be?" for the module Transforming Systems, the activity's focus shifts from transforming physical items to generating innovative solutions for societal challenges. Instead of selecting physical objects, learners identify pressing social issues relevant to their context. They then brainstorm at least 25 creative ideas for addressing these challenges, exploring diverse possibilities without constraints. During presentations, other groups challenge each team to bring one of their ideas to life by developing a plan/prototype, fostering collaborative problem-solving and creative thinking in tackling societal issues. This adaptation encourages learners to think critically about social problems and develop imaginative solutions with tangible impacts.

Materials

    Instructions

    1. Divide participants into small groups of 4-6 members. Instruct each group to select an item from a collection of on-hand objects (see appendix for a list of suggested items).

    2. Once each group has their item, ask them to brainstorm and list at least 25 different creative and innovative ideas for transforming or using the chosen item. Encourage them to think beyond its original purpose and explore diverse possibilities. Don’t let the groups know in advance that they will have to create one of the items on their list - that may limit their imagination.

    3. After the brainstorming session, have each group present their list to the other groups. This can be done through short presentations, poster displays, written lists, or gallery walks, where the other participants provide silent feedback with sticky note checkmarks.

    4. Now comes the fun part! Ask the other groups to challenge each group by selecting one idea from their list and saying “Go make that!”. The challenged group must accept the challenge and work together to bring that idea to life using their chosen item and any other materials they can find.

    5. Allow sufficient time for each group to work on their challenge. Once completed, reconvene the groups, and have them present their creations to the entire audience.


    Background

    Preparation

    • Gather a variety of items that can be easily transformed or repurposed, such as those mentioned in the activity appendix.

    • Prepare flipcharts, markers, or other materials for the brainstorming session and presentations.

    Technology Considerations

    None

    Additional Context

    • Encourage participants to embrace wild and imaginative ideas during the brainstorming session. There are no wrong answers, and the aim is to explore creativity freely.

    • Don’t let the groups know in advance that they will have to create one of the items on their list - that may limit their imagination. Have them generate the list first, and then let everyone know that they’ll have to bring an idea to life from their list.


    Tips for Localization

    • Use items that are culturally relevant and familiar to the participants, reflecting their environment and daily lives.


    Debrief Questions

    • How did your group decide which item to choose, and what inspired your ideas for transforming it?

    • What challenges did your group encounter while working on the creative task? How did you overcome them?

    • How did turning an ordinary object into something creative affect your teamwork and problem-solving skills?

    • What were some of the most surprising or unexpected ideas that stood out from other groups? How did they influence your own thinking?

    • What is the value of creative thinking and innovation in problem-solving and entrepreneurship?

    • How can these skills be applied in other aspects of your life or future ventures?


    Appendix: List of Items for "What Could It Be?" Activity

    Keep in mind this list is not exhaustive. Many household items you have on hand would work well for this activity.

    Cardboard box

    Wooden chair

    Mason jar

    Old ladder

    Plastic water bottle

    Tissue box

    Pillowcase

    Cooking pot

    Tennis racket

    Coffee mug

    Empty pop bottle

    Bicycle tire

    Laundry basket

    Egg carton

    Shoebox

    Wire hanger

    Plastic bucket

    Cereal box

    Paper towel roll

    Shoe lace

    Old newspaper

    Coffee can

    Plastic milk jug

    Wooden pallet

    Aluminum foil

    CD case, DVD case, record sleeve, or tape cassette

    Garden hose

    Bookshelf

    Picture frame

    Potato sack

    Spaghetti strainer

    Snare wire

    Tea bags

    Christmas decorations

    Scrap fabric

    Scrap fur

    Old clothing

    Items from outside - moss, sticks, leaves, etc.

    Jewelry

    Cardboard 


    Comments (0) 

    Please Log in or Sign up for a FREE SessionLab account to continue.