The research centre Global Minds @ Work generously offered three of its members to follow a facilitator certification training in the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® method. Together with staff members from International Business and the research centres Sustainable International Business and Future of Food they explored a multitude of rich possibilities the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® method has to offer.
The LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® method is based on the principle that creating tangible objects before discussion leads to more meaningful, insightful, and honest conversations than discussion alone. Building something with our hands engages our brain differently, and brings new insights to the table. When participants begin a discussion with their physical creations—each representing their unique perspective on the issue—it creates an equal platform for sharing ideas. Everyone’s contribution has a tangible presence on the table, both literally and figuratively. Transforming our thoughts into physical form makes abstract concepts concrete and communicable. This not only deepens our own understanding but enables and encourages collaborative reflection and discussion with others.
Over four intensive days, participants discovered the multifaceted applications of the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® method. The activities ranged from simple exercises, like constructing ducks using just six bricks, to complex projects such as creating a comprehensive Zuyd environment model. This larger project merged 30 individual models to represent Zuyd’s core identity, aspirations, and external perception—a process that took several hours to complete.
Despite varying in complexity, all activities followed the same fundamental structure: receive a challenge, build an individual model, and share its meaning.
We’re eager to apply these newly acquired skills!