Participatory Methods

Phillips 6/6

The Phillips 6/6 dynamic is a participatory methodology designed to facilitate the rapid and structured exchange of ideas. Participants are divided into groups of six to discuss a topic for six minutes. This format allows for the generation of multiple perspectives, ideas, and solutions in a short period while maintaining focus and efficiency.

Preparation

  1. Define the purpose:
    • Establish the objective of the activity:
      • Generating ideas for a project?
      • Solving a specific problem?
      • Reflecting on a particular topic?
  2. Prepare materials:
    • Flip charts, whiteboards, or sticky notes to record generated ideas.
    • Timer or stopwatch to control the time.
  3. Organize participants:
    • Divide the total group into subgroups of six people.
    • If there are more than six people per subgroup, adjust the discussion time to ensure fairness.
  4. Physical or virtual space:
    • If in-person, organize tables or areas for the groups.
    • If virtual, use platforms that allow for separate breakout rooms.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Introduction to the purpose
    • Explain the objective of the activity and how it will be carried out.
    • Present the topic or problem to be discussed, ensuring everyone understands it.
  2. Formation of groups
    • Divide participants into groups of six.
    • Assign a facilitator or responsible person in each group to moderate the discussion.
  3. Small group discussion
    • Each group discusses the assigned topic for six minutes.
    • Ask them to record key ideas, solutions, or reflections on flip charts, sticky notes, or digital tools.
  4. Rotation or presentation (optional)
    • Once the time is up, groups may rotate to discuss a new aspect of the topic or present their ideas to the rest of the group.
  5. Group synthesis
    • Each group shares their results in a plenary session.
    • The facilitator organizes key ideas and highlights recurring patterns or themes.
  6. Reflection and closing
    • Reflect with the group on the process and the results obtained.
    • Highlight how this activity fosters equal participation and quick thinking.
Recommendations
  • Keep time strict: Ensure the six-minute limit is strictly followed to maintain the pace.
  • Encourage equal participation: Make sure all group members have the opportunity to contribute.
  • Organize ideas clearly: Use a structured format to record and present contributions.
  • Reinforce the purpose: Connect the outcomes to the initial objective of the activity.
Inspiration

Situations where the Phillips 6/6 dynamic can be useful:

  • Generating ideas for creative projects.
  • Identifying quick solutions to specific problems.
  • Exploring different perspectives on a topic.
  • Reflecting on complex concepts as a team.
  • Making group decisions efficiently.
  • Prioritizing actions in a project or initiative.
  • Evaluating proposals in their early stages.
  • Encouraging equal participation from all members.
  • Gathering diverse opinions in a large group.
  • Planning strategies in a short amount of time.
  • Developing collaborative approaches to solving challenges.
  • Facilitating debates on controversial or complex topics.
  • Preparing teams for larger-scale activities.
  • Promoting cohesion and idea exchange in newly formed teams.
Materials
  • Flip charts, whiteboards, or sticky notes.
  • Markers or digital tools to record ideas.
  • Timer or stopwatch to manage time.
Online platforms
Purpose
The purpose of the Phillips 6/6 dynamic is to foster collaboration and idea generation in a structured and efficient format, ensuring the participation of all members.
Type of activity
Participatory InteractionParticipatory Learning
Level of participation
Inquiry, Collaboration
Target audience
Educators, Facilitators, Students, Community leaders, NGOs and social collectives, Business teams, Government, Creative designers, Researchers
Fields of application
Education and training, Community development, Organizational and business management, Urban and rural planning, Health and social well-being, Art, culture, and creativity, Sustainability and environment, Public policies and governance, Innovation and design, Research and evaluation, Conflict resolution, Technology and digital environments, Citizen and social participation
Estimated duration
From 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the number of groups and the time allocated for group synthesis.
Ideal number of participants
From 6 to 36 people, to ensure manageable groups and effective discussions.
Topics related to this activity
Active CollaborationActive LearningActive ListeningCollaborative LearningCollective LearningCollective ReflectionCritical ThinkingGroup AnalysisGroup CreativityGroup StrengtheningIdea GenerationPerspective ExchangeTeam CollaborationTeam CreativityTeamworkThematic Management
Other activities that might interest you
Share this activity