Duration
1 minute
Materials
People’s bodies
Origin of Tool
The sound of Silence is a non-verbal communication tool, derived from the hand sign world.
Website
For additional information
https://bridgedale360.org/mod/forum/view.php?id=166
The Sound of Silence
Expected outcome
To quickly and quietly bring silence in a talkative group, in a respectful and delicate way.
Abstract
The sound of Silence is an easy tool to use at the beginning of a meeting, after a break, or even during the meeting if the discussion gets out of hand and people talk at the same time, interrupting each other and creating confusion. It is based on non-verbal communication, the hand-code can be explained before the meeting or simply applied when needed, but in this case it work only if part of the group already knows it.
Content
This tool can be used by any participant who feels the need to bring silence to the room, and also – of course – by the facilitator or trainer. He or she will stand up in a visible position, raise the right hand and put the left handover his / her mouth, signaling that it’s time to stop talking. Like a wave, silence will magically spread to the whole group and the collective energy will change in an instant. No need to start shouting “Silence – silence” … as this would only add chaos to chaos. After a moment or two, the facilitator trainer can move on to the next phase and open the meeting or training session.
Wrap up
This tool is particularly useful with large groups (from about 20 to 100people) and when working in subgroups in different areas, but within eye reach.
Contribute
Feel free to contact us and share your own tools!