This activity can be carried out in a classroom, at school, or in a museum.
Target group: Young people aged 15-25, teachers and youth workers
Duration: 40-45 minutes
Group size: 15-30 persons
Activity objective
Participants will learn how to analyze visual sources and identify their limitations.
Expected learning results
The participants will:
- Recognize the importance of discussing controversial issues;
- Develop critical thinking skills and the ability to analyze visual images;
- Practice active listening and respect for opinions different from their own.
Description of the activity
Select images that illustrate the controversial and multifaceted nature of peaceful protests in Ukraine (sample photos are available in the Appendix below, but you may also choose your own).
2. Print the photos and attach them to large sheets of paper, such as flipchart sheets, using one image per sheet for each group.
3. Divide the participants into groups of 3–5 people. Each group should work at a separate table. Give each group a sheet with a copy of one photo and markers. Each group should work with a different photo. Ask the groups to discuss the image in front of them and write down all the questions the photo raises. These may include questions beginning with What?, When?, Where?, Who?, How?, and Why? Leave space for answers after each question.
4. After this, each group moves to a new table. There, they discuss the questions prepared by the previous group and try to answer them, writing their responses beneath each question. Groups may also add any questions they think are missing. Allow 5 minutes for this stage. Participants are not required to answer all the questions listed on the sheet.
5. Next, the groups change tables again and discuss the new topics and the questions that go with them. They may continue adding to the answers already provided, present counterarguments, or ask new questions. Allow 5 minutes for this stage.
6. After all groups have discussed the proposed topics, invite participants to walk around the room to review the questions and answers. When they are done, gather everyone in a circle for reflection and a wrap-up.
Reflection
- What difficulties did you encounter in this activity?
- Which questions were easier to answer, and which were more difficult? Why?
- What information did the images provide? Was it enough to answer your peers’ questions? What information did you feel was missing?
- How easy or difficult was it to answer the questions prepared by the other groups? Why?
- What do you think about conducting such discussions in writing?
- How would the discussion change if you were communicating face-to-face?
- What is important to keep in mind when discussing controversial topics?
Tips for teachers/ educators
Your role is that of a facilitator, not a judge or an expert. Do not impose your perspective, even if it seems self-evident to you. Keep track of the time, as all groups should switch tables at the same time, even if one group completes the task much faster than the others.
If a conflict arises, stop the game and remind everyone of the rules.
To better understand the topic, we recommend preparing a short presentation about the Maidan (you can find brief information in the handbook Maidan: Questions and Answers).
For more information about the events of the Revolution of Dignity, please refer to the information and educational materials available at: https://maidanmuseum.org/uk/science/9. You may also prepare your materials on a chosen topic, tailored to the specific audience or group of students.
Required materials
- A space with tables that can be moved around. Arrange the tables in a circle (if possible); chairs for all participants.
- Large sheets of paper (flipchart paper).
- Printed photos (see Appendix 1 or choose your own).
- Glue
- Flipchart markers
- You can find more photos for the class on the Maidan Museum website: https://www.maidanmuseum.org/uk/node/636
Authors/Copyright
Lesia Onyshko, Kateryna Romanova
This activity is based on “What Do We Know,” as described in Mały wielki podręcznik demokracji – Droga do dobrej edukacji na temat demokracji, praw człowieka i kontrowersyjnych zagadnień 202 (see https://wergelandcentre.org/resources/the-little-big-handbook-of-democracy/)