Participatory Methods

Time Capsule

Time Capsule is a participatory activity that invites teams or groups to reflect on the present and future. Participants select objects, messages, or symbolic elements representing their current wishes, learnings, goals, or ideas, and then seal them in a capsule to be opened at a defined future date. This activity promotes reflection, teamwork, and the development of a shared vision.

Preparation

  1. Define the purpose:
    • Encourage personal and collective reflection on the present and future.
    • Promote creativity and symbolism in selecting objects or messages.
    • Strengthen a sense of belonging and group cohesion through a symbolic activity.
  2. Prepare the materials:
    • A durable container (metal, plastic, or wooden box) to serve as the capsule.
    • Papers, cards, or notebooks for writing messages.
    • Markers, pencils, and other materials for personalizing messages or drawings.
    • Optional symbolic elements: photos, small objects, meaningful keepsakes.
    • Adhesive tape, glue, or envelopes to individually seal messages or elements.
    • Optional: a label or plaque with the opening date.
  3. Set up the space:
    • Prepare an area where participants can comfortably create their contributions for the capsule.
    • Designate a symbolic place where the capsule will be stored or buried.
  4. To conduct the activity virtually:
    • Use a collaborative platform where participants can upload messages, drawings, or photos representing their contributions to a digital capsule.
    • Provide tools to create a collective document or file that can be saved and revisited in the future.
    • Establish a calendar or reminder for the virtual “opening” on a specified future date.

Step-by-step Instructions

  1. Introduction to the purpose
    • Explain that the activity aims to reflect on the present and capture ideas, feelings, or wishes for the future.
    • Mention that contributions will be stored in a capsule, which will be opened on a future date, allowing participants to revisit and reflect on their contributions.
  2. Individual reflection
    • Ask each participant to reflect on their current situation, future goals, or significant learnings.
    • Invite them to write a message, drawing, or symbol they wish to include in the capsule.
  3. Collective contribution
    • Each participant shares their contribution before placing it in the capsule (optional, if the group agrees).
    • Organize the items inside the capsule neatly, ensuring they’re protected for preservation.
  4. Symbolic closing
    • Seal the capsule and attach a label with the planned opening date.
    • If it’s a physical capsule, jointly decide on the storage or burial location.
  5. Future opening
    • Set up a reminder system to ensure the capsule is opened on the agreed date.
    • Organize a future gathering to reflect on what the group has achieved or learned since creating the capsule.
Recommendations
  • Set a theme: Define a focus for contributions, such as “Personal Goals,” “Group Achievements,” or “Lessons Learned.”
  • Use durable materials: Choose sturdy materials that can withstand time if the capsule will be buried or stored long-term.
  • Create a trusting environment: Ensure participants feel comfortable sharing their reflections.
  • Include a group letter: Suggest that the group writes a collective message to include in the capsule.
  • Keep a photographic record: Take photos of contributions before sealing the capsule to have a visual backup.
  • Encourage personalization: Allow participants to decorate the capsule or their contributions to add a unique touch.
  • Define an opening date: Choose a date that is achievable but distant enough to generate curiosity and future reflection.
Inspiration

Ideas for Reflecting on the Future

  1. Questions for written messages:
    • What do I hope to achieve in the next few years?
    • What do I want to remember about this present moment?
    • What message would I give to my future self?
  2. Symbolic objects to include:
    • Current photographs of the group or team.
    • Small representative objects from the present (e.g., coins, badges).
    • Drawings or diagrams that reflect current ideas and emotions.
  3. Categories for group messages:
    • Collective achievements to celebrate.
    • Shared future goals.
    • Lessons learned during the process.
  4. Creative elements:
    • Collaboratively made group collages.
    • Lists of short- and long-term wishes or dreams.
    • Inspirational poems or quotes.
  5. Activities to enrich the experience:
    • Free-writing activity to capture spontaneous thoughts.
    • Creation of a “time map” with anticipated future events.
    • Group discussion about how participants expect to change and grow.
Materials
  • Durable container for the capsule.
  • Paper, markers, and symbolic objects.
  • Adhesive tape, envelopes, or materials to seal contributions.
  • Space to store or bury the capsule.
Online platforms
Purpose
The purpose of Time Capsule is to invite participants to reflect on the present and project their wishes and goals into the future. This activity strengthens the sense of community, encourages introspection, and provides a meaningful experience that connects the past, present, and future through symbols and messages.
Type of activity
Participatory InteractionParticipatory Learning
Level of participation
Knowledge generation, Exchange of perspectives
Target audience
Students, Community leaders, NGOs and social collectives, Business teams, Creative designers
Fields of application
Education and training, Organizational and business management, Art, culture, and creativity, Innovation and design
Estimated duration
40-60 minutes.
Ideal number of participants
5-30 participants.
Topics related to this activity
Active CollaborationBuilding Possible FuturesCollective ConstructionCollective DocumentationCollective ReflectionConexión humanaCreative ReflectionExperiential LearningHuman ConnectionIdea GenerationParticipatory DocumentationStrategic ReflectionStrategic ThinkingTeam CreativityTeamworkVisual Documentation
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