Rose & Thorn and Bud (RTB)
ACTIVITY TYPE
- Reflection and feedback
DESCRIPTION
Ask the group to reflect and be mindful of a Rose, Thorn, and Bud they have experienced. Help them describe new ideas and things they are looking forward to learning or experiencing. Also, give them the opportunity to reflect on those things they found challenging in order to be able to offer better support.
HOW TO USE IT ONLINE
Use the Jamboard, Whiteboard or similar tool
Use – tools like https://www.mentimeter.com/
RESOURCES NEEDED
- Time to do: 15- 20 min
- Staff: at least one facilitator
- Equipment: flipchart paper, pink/blue/green post in notes, pens
SUITABLE FOR
- large and small groups
HOW TO DO IT
- Define the terms for the activity
Rose = A highlight, success, small win, or something positive that happened.
Thorn = A challenge you experienced or something you can use more support with.
Bud = New ideas that have blossomed or something you are looking forward to knowing more about or experiencing.
- Brainstorm
Give the group 30 seconds to a few minutes to sit silently and reflect on their rose, bud, and thorn. Then give them 5-10 minutes to jot down ideas on a piece of paper or print out the graphic organizer provided here.
- Debrief
Share your own rose, bud, and thorn, and then go around the room asking participants to share their rose, bud, or thorn or reflect on the activity itself.
- Reflection
Check in after completing the activity and ask participants to notice their energy level and thoughts before and after the activity.
ADVANTAGES
- Invites input from all team members
- Facilitates productive discussion
- Helps you identify issues and insights
VARIATIONS
A possible extension for this activity is to brainstorm strategies for turning thorns into roses or to describe ways thorns might support learning and growing.
MORE INFORMATION
https://www.mindfulschools.org/inspiration/mindful-reflection/
https://designsprintkit.withgoogle.com/methodology/phase1-understand/rose-thorn-bud