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SWOT Game

Learning aims

The aim of this game is to collaboratively examine and identify the research needs of our community within a citizen science context using a SWOT analysis.

Materials needed

•       Poster T

•       Flipcharts

•       Markers, threat or wool

•       Timer

Duration and setting

Duration: 60 – 120 minutes

Process description – what has to be done

Game Setup

Participants are divided into teams, with each team representing a different aspect of the SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats).

Game Rules

  1. Each team, labeled Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, or Threats, gathers in a designated area.
  2. In a limited time frame, each team brainstorms and records research needs related to their assigned aspect. For example, the Strengths team may identify research needs based on community strengths.
  3. Once the brainstorming session is over, each team compiles a list of research needs related to their aspect.
  4. Teams rotate clockwise to the next station to review and build upon the previous team’s work.
  5. Each team reviews the list created by the previous team and adds more research needs that align with their assigned aspect. Teams have a set amount of time to do this.
  6. Teams continue to rotate until they return to their starting station.
  7. After all rotations, each team presents their final list of research needs and discusses how these needs connect with the other aspects identified in the SWOT analysis. The key words are gathered on a common paper poster.
  8. The entire group engages in a facilitated discussion to explore connections, conflicts, and potential synergies among the research needs identified. Every participant will be equipped with threat, wool or pens to connect the lines they think are important or mark areas of conflict.

The facilitator helps the group prioritize and refine the list of research needs, considering the ethical implications of the proposed research.

De-Briefing/Reflection/Evaluation

Learning outcomes

Participants gain a deeper understanding of their community’s research needs within the context of citizen science. They learn to think critically about how strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats influence research priorities. The activity encourages collaboration and dialogue among citizens, fostering a sense of community engagement in research.

By turning the SWOT analysis into a simulation game, citizens can actively participate in identifying research needs within their community while considering ethical aspects and working together to prioritize and address those needs.

Questions

What were the most significant research needs that emerged from the game, and how do they align with the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats identified by different teams?

In what ways did the collaborative aspect of the game influence your perspective on research needs within your community, and did you uncover any unexpected connections or insights during the activity?

How do you envision the prioritized research needs identified during the game contributing to citizen science efforts and fostering community engagement, and what ethical considerations should be taken into account when addressing these needs?

References – further information

https://www.mindtools.com/amtbj63/swot-analysis