IDEA GENERATION
INGREDIENTS
- Presentation (Slides 27- 40)
- Pen and Paper
- Flip chart
- Video communications platform link (if online)
Purpose/Goal
To get everyone thinking creatively and generating ideas.
Desired Outcomes
Participants develop problem solving and creative thinking skills.
Serving size:
one group of 2 to 5 people
Preparation time:
5 minutes
Cooking time:
20 minutes
INSTURCTIONS
STEP 1: DIVIDE INTO GROUPS AND PICK YOUR ADJECTIVE (2 MIN)
Divide participants into groups of 3-5 people. Ask each group to come up with one adjective that they feel represents their group (e.g., “bold,” “bright,” “green”). Group should note down their chosen adjective.
STEP 2: SELECT A GROUP MEMBER AND CHOOSE A NOUN (3 MIN)
Have each group select one member to come up with a noun that starts with the first letter of their own name. For example, if the group member’s name is Sam, they might choose “sunflower.” Groups write down this noun to pair with their adjective.
STEP 3: SHARE GROUP WORDS (2 MIN)
Groups shout out their chosen adjective and noun combination. The facilitator records these words on the flip chart or annotates them on the Flip Chart/ PowerPoint for everyone to see. Each group’s two words now represent their “group identity” for this activity.
STEP 4: INTRODUCE THE CHALLENGE WITH A VISUAL (2 MIN)
Show a video or photo that highlights a challenge or an issue that you have selected for this hackathon (e.g., a photo of food waste, junk food, lack of gardening plots…,). Invite participants to describe what they see and share any immediate thoughts about the problem shown.
STEP 5: GENERATE CREATIVE SOLUTIONS USING GROUP WORDS (5 MIN)
Challenge each group to think about one random idea, one superpower idea,and one crazy idea using their two chosen words as inspiration.
Example: If a group selected the adjective “green” and the noun “flower,” they could imagine:
- A brand of eco-friendly products called “Green Flower”
- A project that transforms landfills into “green flower parks”
- A podcast series named “Green Flower” focused on climate change awareness
Give groups 5 minutes to brainstorm and develop one solid idea.
STEP 6: PRESENT CREATIVE SOLUTIONS (3- 5 MIN)
Each group has 1 minute to choose only one idea and present their idea/solution to the group.
Tips & Tricks
- Remind participants to think outside the box- crazy and unconventional solutions are welcome.
- Maintain energy by giving groups just a few minutes to come up with their ideas. This quick pace encourages spontaneous, creative thinking.
- Encourage groups to share quirky, imaginative ideas. This approach can lead to surprisingly innovative solutions.
