Trails to Literacy: TOOLKIT
An issue bin is a great tool that allows open communication. It helps participants express concerns, issues, or suggestion in a non-threatening way.
Set up a large sheet of paper, poster or white-board as your issue bin. Using post- it notes, participants are allowed at any time to post issues, concerns, or suggestions. (Make sure there are always post-its available near the “bin”. This allows participants to become involved in the communication process without being identified. The group should be encouraged not to mention names and to try not to “pick on” any one individual.
The issue bin gets checked weekly by the facilitator or other person chosen by the group. At the next meeting discuss the suggestions or use brainstorming, the fishbone, etc. to come up with solutions to the problems listed in the issue bin.
Issues may range from petty to serious, but they are all worth addressing. Small issues can become very large disagreements if ignored. Finding solutions to basic situations helps build the skills to communicate and problem-solve. The participants are learning life-long skills to help them in any situation.
Venn diagram The Venn Diagram is used to compare similarities and differences. When you compare, you need two or three ideas. The diagram below illustrates the comparison of two ideas. If three ideas were compared, a third circle would be added.
