Way to Use ForumCards

There are many ways to use the cards. Below are several options. Each can be used with cards facing up or cards facing down. When cards are facing up participants can actively choose their card(s). When cards are facing down there is an element of the unknown and the facilitator can ask participants why they think they received the particular card(s) at this specific time in their life. This may trigger deeper learning and a new way for participants to look at themselves and their issues. The facilitator can adapt the uses to match the goals and nature of his/her group.When a person is sharing in a group setting it is important that he/she speaks uninterrupted. The facilitator determines the timing of the sharing, the subsequent discussion and the lessons learned. Timing will depend on group goals, the number of participants and the time available.

1- Meaning: Each participant selects a card and then talks about how that specific card relates to them in a particular relationship; e.g., the thoughts, feelings and emotions which have surfaced.

Alternatively, each participant is asked to select 3-5 cards and then to choose one that resonates most srongly for them at this time and why, and one with which they identify least and why.

2- Time perspective (past, present and future): Members can chose a current issue in their lives and then select 3 cards: one representing the past (the context and how the issue started); one representing the present (where they are with the issue today, how they feel and options they are considering) and one card representing the future (what they really want - the ideal outcome for them and actions to be taken).

3- Relationship Essentials: Each participant (up to 12) is given five cards by the facilitator. Participants are asked to trade cards with other members so they end up with 5 cards they believe are most essential for flourishing relationships. When trading participants are asked to explain to the owner why they want a particular card and what card they give in return and why. The facilitator holds the remaining cards so the participants can trade his/her’s cards as well. This stimulates rich conversations and energy in the room.

4- Feedback: For mature groups, where members know each other well and have created mutual trust and respect, a member can select a card for another person in the group and state how this card (image or word) relates to the other person. 5- Pairs: It is possible to divide a large group into pairs. In this case, two people work together first and then share cards and insights with the rest of the group.

ForumCards is a perfect tool for group facilitators, forum moderators of all types of forums (e.g., member and partner forum, couple’s forum, family forum young adult forum), therapists, teachers, newly-weds or any couple who value their relationship.