Exploring Conflict Resolution Concepts Through Expression

Learning Objectives

• Participants will demonstrate the ability to creatively and effectively portray conflict resolution concepts through non-verbal communication
• Increased awareness of the role of non-verbal communication in conflict resolution.
• Understanding how individuals interpret concepts differently based on gestures and expressions.
• Development of empathy by considering multiple perspectives in conveying and interpreting non-verbal cues.
• Encourage participants to interpret concepts individually and collaboratively construct meaning through debrief discussions.

Content

I developed this paired charade workshop, inspired by the classic game of charades, to delve into essential concepts related to conflict and peacemaking. Drawing directly from the structure of charades, my goal is to create an engaging activity that emphasizes the diverse interpretations people have, particularly when communication is restricted to non-verbal cues.

The activity incorporates words and phrases related to conflict and peacemaking such as:

• Power dynamics
• Negotiation
• Inequality 
• Compromise
• Disagreement
• Advocacy
• Resistance
• Neutrality
• Process
• Misunderstanding

Context

This resource is adaptable to a variety of educational settings, spanning different age groups and subjects. It is suitable for middle school, high school, college, and community contexts. The activity’s flexibility allows it to seamlessly integrate into conflict resolution courses, communication workshops, or community-building initiatives. Its experiential nature makes it valuable in both formal classroom environments and informal community settings.

Materials

• Small pieces of paper with concepts (as listed above) written down
• Timer
• Space

Implementation

Introduction (1-2 minutes): Begin by introducing the activity, drawing a parallel to the game of charades. Explain that this exercise will focus on non-verbal communication in the context of conflict resolution. 

Pairing (1-2 minutes): Ask participants to pair up and decide within their pairs who will take on the role of the guesser and who will be the actor in the first round. Encourage discussion and ensure that both participants have a clear understanding of their roles. 

Concept Distribution: Once pairs are established, distribute small pieces of paper with concepts related to conflict resolution (as listed above) to each person. Instruct the participants to not share the content of their paper.

Timer Set-Up: Set a timer for one minute, and instruct participants to act out their assigned concept using non-verbal communication. Remind them to be creative and use gestures, body language, and expressions effectively.

Round 1 (1 minute): Begin the timer and allow pairs to engage in the first round of the activity. Observe the dynamics and non-verbal interactions within each pair.

Once the timer concludes, give pairs a few moments to discuss the concept portrayed and the interpretations (1 minute)

Round 2 (1 minute): Set up the timer again, allowing the second person in each pair to be the guesser in the second round. Repeat the process. 

After the second round, invite everyone to a debrief session. Encourage reflection on feelings and challenges in both roles. Ask participants to share examples of effective or ineffective gestures, body language, and expressions in conveying concepts.

Debrief

Pose debrief questions such as:

• Were there specific gestures or expressions that were particularly effective or ineffective in conveying concepts?
• Do you think your partner accurately portrayed the word or phrase? Explore why it might be accurate or inaccurate. How would you have done it differently?
• Does anyone want to share an example of specific gestures, body language, and expressions that were particularly effective or ineffective in conveying concepts?

Goals

As participants engage in creative acts of expression, the activity goes beyond theoretical discussions, offering a hands-on experience that bridges the gap between understanding and application. Throughout the debrief and discussion sessions, it becomes apparent that effective communication plays a crucial role in understanding diverse interpretations. Encouraging participants to reflect on the gestures, body language, and expressions used by their partners prompts them to recognize the nuances of non-verbal communication. The activity underscores that what may seem clear to one person might be interpreted differently by another, emphasizing the need for clarity and precision in communication. The incorporation of various pedagogies, such as experiential learning, reflective practice, and inquiry-based learning, adds depth to the educational experience. These pedagogical approaches not only strengthen the learning outcomes but also promote the development of essential skills, including creativity, empathy, and effective communication.