Timeline is a participatory activity where participants reconstruct and analyze significant events related to a topic, organizing them chronologically in a visual representation. This activity fosters collective reflection, helps to understand the context, and promotes the exchange of perspectives by identifying key milestones from different viewpoints. The process is both analytical and creative, adaptable for purposes such as planning, evaluation, or knowledge generation.
Participants contribute events or milestones by writing them directly on a timeline drawn on large paper, a whiteboard, or a digital space. Depending on the purpose, positive, negative, or neutral events can be visually coded, sparking enriching debates.
Preparation:
Set up the activity and timeline (5-10 minutes):
- Define the purpose and topic of the timeline. Example: “Analyze the key milestones in the evolution of our project over the past five years.”
- Draw a chronological baseline on paper, a whiteboard, or a virtual platform, leaving space for events and comments.
Step-by-step instructions
Contribution of events (15-20 minutes):
- Participants add key events or milestones to the timeline, either directly or using sticky notes or cards.
- Events can be categorized: positives (above the line), negatives (below the line), or neutral.
Collective analysis (20-30 minutes):
- Facilitate a discussion about the events added. Ask:
- What patterns can be observed?
- Which events had the most significant impact?
- What insights emerge from this analysis?
- If there are disagreements about an event, mark it with a question or note the different perspectives for further exploration.
Reflection and closure (10-15 minutes):
- Summarize the key insights and areas requiring further exploration.
- If appropriate, leave the timeline open for future additions.
