Learning objectives | The objective of this activity is to reinforce learners understanding of the role of the circular economy as well as the transition towards green business through brainstorming. The participants are encouraged to work together to repurpose products at random to allow for strengthened idea generation processes. In particular, the aim of this module is to compliment the material covered in slides 17-24 of the WP2 presentation for Module 1.2 which covers a case study of a circular business, as well as the role of the circular economy. |
Content / Methodology/Evaluation | Procedure: The facilitator begins the activity by asking participants to share their own examples of times when they have repurposed something for their own uses. These can be large-scale projects such as upcycling furniture or clothing, or small-scale such as reusing plastic as plant pots. - The facilitator splits participants into groups of 3-4 and provides each group with a piece of flipchart paper. The facilitator assigns each group a product at random. The aim of this activity is for participants to design and create a new version of a randomly assigned product by the facilitator using circular supplies and recyclable materials.
- The facilitator displays the SCAMPER idea generation method for participants to refer to and lets participants know that they are not required to use all seven letters, the model is a guide not a list to be fulfilled.
- The participants should use the SCAMPER model to build upon the existing product to make the product more sustainable and circular in manufacturing.
- The facilitator(s) should set a timer for 30 minutes for the groups to use the SCAMPER model to assist in their product design. The facilitator should answer any questions that participants may have during this time.
- Once the timer has elapsed, the facilitator(s) invites each group to share their own inventions. Each group has 3-4 minutes to present their concept and share why they chose to do what they have done.
- Once each group has presented, the facilitator leads the group in a discussion about repurposing old products for a new life using the following prompt questions:
- What were some of the most creative examples shared during the initial activity? How did those examples inspire you?
- How did your group approach the challenge of designing a more sustainable and circular version of the assigned product?
- Which elements of the SCAMPER model did your group find most helpful in generating ideas for the redesign?
Methodology: - By asking participants to share their own adult teaching techniques, it encourages active participation and draws on their existing prior knowledge and experiences.
- Splitting participants into smaller groups encourages peer-to-peer learning and provides opportunities for participants to exchange ideas and perspectives.
- The use of randomly assigned products allows for flexibility and problem-solving skills.
Introducing the SCAMPER idea generation method provides a clear framework for participants to follow but also encourages participants to bounce ideas off each other using a specific though process. Evaluation: Using the following questions, facilitators can evaluate the effectiveness of the activity: - Did your group encounter any challenges or roadblocks during the design process? How did you overcome them?
- How did you incorporate circular supplies and recyclable materials into your design? What specific materials did you use?
- What do you believe are the key benefits of repurposing old products for a new life, both environmentally and economically?
- Were there any surprising or unexpected discoveries that emerged during the design process?
- How does your redesigned product align with the principles of sustainability and circularity? What aspects of the original product did you retain, and what did you modify?
- In what ways can the lessons learned from this activity be applied to real-world scenarios or industries? Can you think of any products in the market that could benefit from similar redesign strategies?
What broader implications does this activity have for promoting a more sustainable and circular approach to product design and consumption? |
Comments | As the aim of this activity is to increase participants able to generate ideas and creatively think using a specified prompt, it builds upon the knowledge about the circular economy imparted during the WP2 presentation. Pumpo, A. (2023, June 16). SCAMPER technique for creative thinkers. Europass Teacher Academy. https://www.teacheracademy.eu/blog/scamper-technique-for-creative-thinkers/ |