Presentation with the Key Code
The Key Code is a creative strategy for creating alphanumeric codes and getting to know the people in a group in formation.
To start, distribute a blank index card and a pen to each person in your group. Instruct everyone to write their first name in the top half of the card.
In the bottom half, ask each person to write a series of numbers and letters which represent a set of interesting facts about themselves. For example, 80S-16Y-2C could represent a person born in the 80s, married for 16 years and has 2 children.
Encourage people to consider interesting or engaging aspects of their life. All of the clues are cryptic and remain unknown to most observers, but if these numbers and letters reveal something interesting, stronger bonds will form between people.
When ready, pin the name-tags on each person’s clothing. Then, invite people to mix and mingle and engage in a series of conversations with others to discover what all of the clues mean.
Ask each person to meet with at least 8 people over the course of 5-10 minutes. If the energy of the group drops, it is not necessary to talk to the 8 people, if on the contrary the group is enthusiastic, let them interact for longer and with more people.
Moment of Reflection
- Was there a particular element or theme which featured frequently on people’s name-tags? What was it?
- How easy was it to decipher the numbers and letters? Did you get better at it with practice? Did you learn something new?
- Now you know a little more about some people?
- What surprised you in this exercise? Why?
The topics of this publication: integration, interactions, creativity, imagination, disinhibition, distension, foster relationships
