Suggestion Circles

Suggestion Circles is a high-quality, problem-solving alternative for quick and efficient sharing of information and ideas. Since the number of ideas to guide someone to a solution is large, Suggestion Circles provides a multitude of options to consider that might otherwise have overlooked. It is respectful of each student’s ideas and involvement while ensuring that every student participates in the overall process of reaching a solution to a problem or the summary/conclusion of a discussion.

Implementation

1. Participants should sit in a circle or some arrangement in which everyone can be seen by all.
2. A circle within a circle (Fishbowl) format can be used if a small group is modeling for the class.
3. Though students may choose to pass, the teacher may want to develop a protocol for how many passes are allowed.
4. This strategy works well when an isolated problem is posed by one person or a small group of students and as an idea starter for a larger project.

Classroom Management

 

1. One person states the problem or concern in a limited number of sentences and in an unbiased manner.
2. One person is assigned the role of recorder. S/he will make notes about each suggestion in a manner that the notes can be seen throughout the discussion, or the recorder will periodically read the suggestions.
3. Each student must succinctly offer one relevant idea as a possible solution to the problem.
4. Students may elect to pass. The teacher may determine the total number of passes allowed.
5. Questions are not asked, no comments may be made about any suggestion, and body language may not suggest criticism.
6. The person who stated the problem acknowledges each suggestion with a positive comment.
7. After every student in the circle has made a suggestion, the person who stated the problem tells which, if any, of the suggestions s/he chooses as the best course of action for the problem.