Needs Barometer
The Barometer of Needs is a method that uses movement, physical positioning in space, and group discussion to encourage the expression of opinions, attitudes, and needs—while also promoting respect for differing perspectives. It supports group dialogue that can lead to new insights and points of view.
THEME
Discussion about needs
COMPLEXITY
Intermediate
Advanced
GROUP SIZE
15-20
participants
AGE
15+
TIME
45
min.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Introduction (10 min): The session begins with a short energizer to help create a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere.
The facilitator explains the rules of the activity: “When you hear a statement, take a moment to reflect on how much you agree or disagree with it. Then, position yourself in the room according to your opinion:
-
- One side of the room represents ‘I agree,’
- The opposite side represents ‘I disagree,’
- The middle represents ‘Neither agree nor disagree.’”*
Participants are reminded that everyone has the right to express their opinion without offending others and that all viewpoints should be respected.
- Needs Barometer (20 min): The facilitator prepares a series of thought-provoking statements in advance to spark reflection and discussion among young people. Examples include:
-
- Education is equally accessible to everyone.
- Everyone in our city has the same opportunities for a good quality of life.
- I believe anyone can advance in their career if they work hard enough.
After choosing their position in the room, participants are encouraged to share why they chose that spot. Open discussion between participants is facilitated, allowing for different perspectives to emerge and be explored.
- Reflection and evaluation (15 minutes): The session ends with a group reflection. Suggested guiding questions include:
-
- What did you enjoy about this activity?
- Was there anything you didn’t like or would want to change?
- How did you feel during the exercise?
- Did you learn anything new about yourself, others, or your community?
Tips for Facilitators:
- It is important to ensure that the space allows participants to move around freely.
- Place a sign reading “I agree” on one side of the room and “I disagree” on the other to help participants engage more easily in the activity.
- At the beginning, it’s essential to build group cohesion so participants feel safe and comfortable engaging in discussion.
- Prepare statements that are relevant, reflective, and likely to spark discussion. Choose wording that encourages participants to explore and understand different perspectives.
Variations and adjustments:
- Depending on the participants, the activity may involve a simple expression of needs through spatial positioning.
- The facilitator can also guide the group towards a deeper discussion, in order to gain richer insights and a more comprehensive understanding of the topic.
Disclaimer:
- At the beginning of the activity, clearly state that this is a safe and respectful space where everyone can express their needs and opinions. Remind participants of the zero-tolerance policy for hate speech, ensuring that mutual respect is maintained throughout the session.
Needs analysis activities
MODULE 1 NEEDS ANALYSIS
Needs analysis activities
MODULE 2 MUSIC AND MOVEMENT
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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