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Associative cards

Associative cards can be used in many ways, both with individuals and with groups of users. The creative use of the cards has no limits except for the boundaries of the facilitator’s imagination and the goal of a particular activity. They can be used to create a safe environment in which communication skills and the sharing of thoughts, ideas, and emotions with others can be practiced. They encourage communication, creativity, and imagination. By using them, we can reach the intuitive part of a person, which fosters a more authentic expression. Likewise, for some people who find it difficult to express themselves verbally, it will be easier to express themselves through associations.

This method helps establish contact and initiate conversation. Facilitators can gain insight into the needs of young people through the use of associations and projections. It is important that facilitators avoid interpreting the cards for the participant, as this could impose their own associations rather than allowing the participant’s perspective to emerge. It is always and exclusively about needs, associations, stories, metaphors, words, and sentences that the users themselves have offered.[1]

THEME

Expression of needs through associative cards

COMPLEXITY

Intermediate
Advanced

GROUP SIZE

10

participants

AGE

15+

TIME

60

min.

Objectives

  • Become aware of one’s own needs
  • Verbalize one’s own needs
  • Develop imagination and creativity

Materials

  • Private and quiet room, associative cards

Target group

  • Young people

Overview

Young people are invited, through a visualization exercise, to recognize their own needs, which will then be shared with the group using associative cards.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Introduction (10 min):  Young participants are informed that today they will explore their needs using associative cards:
    “Associative cards are a tool that can serve many purposes—such as expressing ideas, opinions, or emotions. Today, we will use them to help you reflect on and share some of your personal needs.”
  2. Visualisation and Associative Cards (10 min): Before the main activity, guide participants through a short visualization to help them connect with their needs:
    “Sit comfortably. Feel the ground beneath your feet. Notice the points of contact between your body and the chair or floor. Feel your body. Slowly scan your body from your feet up to the top of your head.
    If you notice any tension, try to gently release it, or breathe more deeply into that area.
    Now, think about what you need from this workshop. What would you like to learn? What new skills would you like to gain? What kind of atmosphere would you like to experience in the group?
    Bring your attention back to your breath, and take a few slow, deep breaths in and out.”
    Instructions for the exercise:
    Ask participants to choose a card that represents a need they have, or that reminds them of something from the visualization. Encourage them to take their time looking through the cards, but to choose the one that draws them in rather than overthinking.
  3. Reflection on cards (30 min): Participants sit in a circle and reflect on the card they selected. Each person is invited to share their thoughts, but their privacy is respected—If someone does not wish to share their reflection with the group, they can write it down and hand it to the facilitator. It is essential to respect each person’s creativity and interpretation. It is not allowed to correct someone’s association or suggest that their interpretation is “wrong.” Each person’s experience is valid.
  4. Reflection and evaluation (10 min): The following questions can be asked:
    • What did you like about this activity?
    • Is there something you didn’t like and you’d like to change?
    • How did you feel during the exercises?
    • How do you feel now after the exercises?
    • Did you learn something new about yourself?

Tips for Facilitators:

  • Every interpretation of a card is valid and meaningful for the person who chose it.
  • Support a safe and inclusive space where participants feel comfortable expressing themselves.
  • Allow enough time for each participant to reflect on their needs before sharing.
  • Let the group know in advance that each person will have a few minutes to speak, to ensure everyone has time to express themselves.

Variations and adjustments:

  • If participants speak different languages, consider using translation tools, visual instructions, or peer support.
  • Some participants might find it difficult to openly express needs or emotions, it may be unfamiliar or uncomfortable due to cultural norms. Offer alternatives to sharing aloud: in writing or drawing.
  • If working remotely, use digital associative cards (available in apps or online platforms) and a video conferencing tool.
  • Participants can keep the card they chose and write a personal letter or journal entry based on it later, deepening the reflection process.

Disclaimer:

  • This activity should be used by youth workers or facilitators who know how to create a safe and friendly space for everyone.

[1] (15) Kusturin, S. and Rosandić, A. (2005) Kako kontaktirati. Udruga Igra.

Needs analysis activities

Contact

Iuliana Adriana PAVEL (project manager)

iuliana.pavel@a4action.ro
A4ACTION – Antim Ivireanu Culture House, Islaz Alley, Ghermănești, Snagov, Ilfov District, Romania, 077170

Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the ANPCDEFP. Neither the European Union nor the ANPCDEFP can be held responsible for them.

The project is conducted by the following organisations: A4ACTION (Romania) – coordinator, Udruga Delta (Croatia), InterAktion (Austria), Asociación Espacio Rojo (Spain) and GAIA Museum Outsider Art (Denmark).

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