Challenges and strategies by Alexandra Cunha

How will you identify and build on participants' prior knowledge throughout the workshop?

alexandra_cunha — 2025-07-06 23:57:56 UTC

Warm-ups, provocations and learning activators are good opportunities for participants to share their previous knowledge. A good starting point is asking a powerful question and offering spaces (can be breakout rooms, zoom chat) where they can share their own experience.

How will you ensure a balance between facilitator- and participant-led inquiries and commentaries throughout the workshop?

alexandra_cunha — 2025-07-07 00:05:16 UTC

I think it is important to balance moments of guided input and open exploration. As facilitators, we can spark thinking by asking open-ended questions or using visible thinking routines. Then we can move participants into breakout rooms and they use digital tools where they can lead the dialogue and build on each other's ideas. Also, using the chat and pools so they can answer questions in real time and adapt the flow of the workshop according to the answers.

Which virtual tools might you use to nurture reflection throughout the workshop, not just at the end of an inquiry?

alexandra_cunha — 2025-07-07 00:09:50 UTC

I’d use a mix of tools that allow participants to pause, process, and share their thinking in different ways. Padlet, Mentimeter, Google Slides are great for capturing reflections visually and collaboratively throughout the session. I also like using the chat for quick “temperature checks” or prompts like “What’s standing out to you right now?” to get insights in the moment.

For deeper reflection, tools like Google Docs or shared journaling spaces can help participants revisit and build on their thoughts over time. I’d also include breakout room moments where participants can process ideas together, then bring key takeaways back to the whole group.