.Category
{S/N Exercise}
.Stage
{Basics}
.Note
{(Recommended for Otto's Famous Eight Group Design)}
.Title
{Describe (Anything)}
.Minimum
{3 - 4 Ss and 3 - 4 Ns}
.Ideal
{6 - 8 Ss and 6 - 8 Ns}
.Maximum
{50 people (If larger, see Trainer Tips - Dealing With Large Groups.)}
.TimeMin
{20 minutes}
.TimeMax
{35 minutes (Time will vary by group size)}
.Object1
{To highlight and experience the differences between S and N perceptions}
.Object2
{To begin to understand the role of the S and N preferences in the communication process}
.Object3
{To underscore the concept that the <U>combined<N> reported perceptions of both preferences are more comprehensive than either preference by itself}
.Object4
{To help participants validate an S or N preference}
.Material1
{An object to describe (See Trainer Instructions below)}
.Material2
{Flipchart paper (several sheets) for each group}
.Material3
{Markers}
.Material4
{Masking tape}
.Material5
{S/N Highlights or Good S/N Words handouts (Optional)}
.Instruct1
{Choose something for the participants to describe.  This could be almost anything: objects, pictures, esoteric concepts such as a sunset or time, posters, M&Ms, charts, viewgraphs, contents of a purse, trivets, or pictures from magazines.  The training room often has objects that can be used, especially if the coffee breakout table is there.  Apples, jam jars, and creamers are often available.  When choosing something to describe, have the groups look at the same item or ones that are as identical as possible.  <B>Note:<N>  If there are more than two groups, you could give each pair of S/N groups something different to describe.  When choosing items for this exercise you will begin to find those items that work for your groups.  But don't be afraid to experiment with new items.}
.Instruct2
{Separate the participants into groups according to their preference score or clarity (see Trainer Tips).  Provide them with flipchart paper and markers.}
.Instruct3
{Give each group their item with the following verbal instructions:}
.Box1
{"Describe this item and prepare a group report on the flipchart paper.  You have 10 minutes."  <B>Note:<N>  DO NOT CALL THE "ITEM" BY ITS NAME.  Instead of "Describe this apple," say, "Describe this item."  There is one exception.  If the item is esoteric, such as the sunset, time, your office, or a Christmas tree, it will be necessary to name it in your instructions to the groups.}
.Debrief1
{Have each group verbally share their reports without  telling the participants which group is S or N.  Hear each group's report and then process the differences in the large group.}
.Debrief2
{Ask the group:  "What, if any, differences do you observe in these reports?"}
.Debrief3
{Facilitate a discussion highlighting the differences and weave into this, if not perceived by the group, the comprehensiveness of the combined reports.  Also, remind the group that our perceptions are the beginning of our communication process.  If we don't understand the differences, or if we believe our perceptions are the best or the only correct ones, then effective communication will be difficult.}
.Debrief4
{To complete the group debriefing, give a brief presentation and a handout to reinforce S/N differences and group learnings.  (See Good S/N Words and S/N Highlights handouts.)}
