Agile Chairs

Agile Chairs is a serious game that allows participants to experience teamwork and decision-making. Through playful situations, participants learn to adapt and work together to achieve a common goal.

Walkthrough

1. 1

   Introduction and Role Selection

   10 min

   The facilitator explains the context of the game and the importance of interculturality. Participants are invited to split into two groups: engineers and Derdians, on a voluntary basis. Each group is taken to a separate room to receive their specific instructions.

   Tip — Ensure that each participant fully understands their role and the associated rules before starting.

2. 2

   Presentation of Cultures

   15 min

   Each group receives detailed information about their respective culture. The Derdians learn their social rules, while the engineers are briefed on the construction project objectives. Facilitators must ensure that participants clearly understand these rules, as they will influence their interactions.

   Tip — Use concrete examples to illustrate cultural rules and facilitate understanding.

3. 3

   Meeting and Beginning of Collaboration

   20 min

   The two groups meet for the first time. The engineers must attempt to explain the bridge construction project to the Derdians while respecting their customs. The Derdians, in turn, must react according to their cultural rules, which can create amusing and educational misunderstandings.

   Tip — Encourage participants to stay in character to maximise the immersive experience of the game.

4. 4

   Bridge Construction

   30 min

   Participants begin to work together to build the bridge using the provided materials. The engineers must teach the Derdians how to use the tools while respecting cultural differences. The Derdians must try to understand and apply the instructions while remaining true to their customs.

   Tip — Monitor interactions and intervene if necessary to clarify misunderstandings without breaking the flow of the game.

5. 5

   Finalisation and Presentation

   15 min

   Teams present the bridge they have built together. Each group shares their experience, the challenges faced, and the solutions found. This is an opportunity to celebrate the work accomplished and reflect on the learnings gained.

   Tip — Take photos of the constructed bridge to keep a visual memory of the activity.

Variants

• Add time constraints to increase pressure and simulate tight deadlines.
• Change the cultural rules of the Derdians to explore other intercultural dynamics.
• Include observers who take notes and provide feedback at the end of the game.