Activity in brief

“Favourite Places” engages participants in identifying and discussing their favorite and least favorite places on a map using colored pins. Participants examine how environments influence their emotions and decisions, but also how community spaces are experienced and perceived by different people. The activity draws together sociology, geography, psychology but also history, ecology and engineering; the aim is to engender dialogue amongst different perspectives.

Detailed instructions

Practical details

Duration

Between 30’ to 60’ depending on the number of participants involved.

For Whom

This activity is suitable for groups of both children and adults, and it applies to generic audiences (schools, youth groups, adult workshops, and community programs).

Materials needed

  • Basemap: A large printed basemap (A2 or A1 size) of the local area, from sources like Open Street Maps, mounted on cardboard for durability.
  • Pins: Pins in two different colors (to differentiate between favorite and least favorite places).
  • Sticky Notes: Enough sticky notes for participants to write their thoughts and feelings about the places they pin.
  • Pens or Pencils: Writing tools for participants to use on sticky notes.
  • Large Table: A spacious table to lay out the basemap and allow participants to gather around comfortably.
  • Optional Additional Equipment: Wall space or additional boards for hanging the map or displaying sticky notes if not using a table.

Space requirements

  • Large Room with a Table: This activity is ideally conducted in a large room with ample space for a big table where participants can easily access and interact with the map.
  • Wall Space: Having wall space is beneficial for hanging maps if not using a table, or for placing additional notes and materials.
  • Good Lighting: Adequate lighting is crucial to ensure that all participants can clearly see the map and read the sticky notes.

Recommended Feedback tools

Try the fast networking technique to start your workshop, group the answers, and use this summary at the end of the workshop for more thought.

Consider your participants

Spatial Orientation Challenges: Some participants may struggle with interpreting standard maps. Offering alternatives like guided walks around the area or creating personal maps can help those with different spatial thinking skills engage more effectively.

Accuracy of Maps: The provided basemap may not accurately reflect the current layout or may omit significant places that participants feel connected to. This can be an opportunity to discuss the limitations of maps and possibly create a new, more representative basemap with participant input.

Physical Layout Requirements: Ensure a large enough table and room layout that supports easy access for all participants. A larger table not only facilitates gathering and discussion but also supports side conversations and smaller group interactions.

Limited Physical Movement: The original activity may not involve much physical movement, which could limit engagement. Introducing elements such as string or markers to demarcate walks or routes on the map can add a dynamic component, encouraging participants to physically interact with the space and think about their physical relationship with the locations.

Emotional Support: Discussing personal attachments to places can evoke strong emotions, especially if those places are associated with negative experiences. Facilitators should be equipped to handle emotional responses sensitively and provide support or private space if needed.

Keep the Conversation going

Encourage Questions: Regularly pause to invite participants to ask questions or clarify their understanding about the conventions and use of maps.

Invite Personal Stories: Prompt participants to share personal experiences related to extreme environments (like intense heat or cold), helping them to add detail to the maps and their own life experiences

Keep It Moving: If interest or energy drops, introduce new elements like short clips, atmospheric sounds, or sensory prompts to refresh enthusiasm and maintain creative engagement.

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Please note that this activity is provided for personal educational, informational and convenience purposes only, is general in nature and is not intended as a substitute for professional, legal, or medical advice.