Participatory Methods
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Participatory InteractionParticipatory Learning

Phillips 6/6

Phillips 6/6
Duration
From 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the number of groups and the time allocated for group synthesis.
Participants
From 6 to 36 people, to ensure manageable groups and effective discussions.
Areas of application
Educación y formaciónDesarrollo comunitarioGestión organizacional y empresarialPlanificación urbana y ruralSalud y bienestar socialArte, cultura y creatividadSostenibilidad y medio ambientePolíticas públicas y gobernanzaInnovación y diseñoInvestigación y evaluaciónResolución de conflictosTecnología y entornos digitalesParticipación ciudadana y social
Participation level
ConsultaColaboración
Target audience
EducadoresFacilitadoresEstudiantesLíderes comunitariosONGs y colectivos socialesEquipos empresarialesFuncionarios públicosDiseñadores creativosInvestigadores
The Phillips 6/6 dynamic is a participatory methodology designed to facilitate the rapid and structured exchange of ideas. Participants are divided into groups of six to discuss a topic for six minutes. This format allows for the generation of multiple perspectives, ideas, and solutions in a short period while maintaining focus and efficiency.

Preparation

  1. Define the purpose:
    • Establish the objective of the activity:
      • Generating ideas for a project?
      • Solving a specific problem?
      • Reflecting on a particular topic?
  2. Prepare materials:
    • Flip charts, whiteboards, or sticky notes to record generated ideas.
    • Timer or stopwatch to control the time.
  3. Organize participants:
    • Divide the total group into subgroups of six people.
    • If there are more than six people per subgroup, adjust the discussion time to ensure fairness.
  4. Physical or virtual space:
    • If in-person, organize tables or areas for the groups.
    • If virtual, use platforms that allow for separate breakout rooms.

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Introduction to the purpose
    • Explain the objective of the activity and how it will be carried out.
    • Present the topic or problem to be discussed, ensuring everyone understands it.
  2. Formation of groups
    • Divide participants into groups of six.
    • Assign a facilitator or responsible person in each group to moderate the discussion.
  3. Small group discussion
    • Each group discusses the assigned topic for six minutes.
    • Ask them to record key ideas, solutions, or reflections on flip charts, sticky notes, or digital tools.
  4. Rotation or presentation (optional)
    • Once the time is up, groups may rotate to discuss a new aspect of the topic or present their ideas to the rest of the group.
  5. Group synthesis
    • Each group shares their results in a plenary session.
    • The facilitator organizes key ideas and highlights recurring patterns or themes.
  6. Reflection and closing
    • Reflect with the group on the process and the results obtained.
    • Highlight how this activity fosters equal participation and quick thinking.

Purpose

The purpose of the Phillips 6/6 dynamic is to foster collaboration and idea generation in a structured and efficient format, ensuring the participation of all members.

Required materials

  • Flip charts, whiteboards, or sticky notes.
  • Markers or digital tools to record ideas.
  • Timer or stopwatch to manage time.

Platforms

Practical recommendations

  • Keep time strict: Ensure the six-minute limit is strictly followed to maintain the pace.
  • Encourage equal participation: Make sure all group members have the opportunity to contribute.
  • Organize ideas clearly: Use a structured format to record and present contributions.
  • Reinforce the purpose: Connect the outcomes to the initial objective of the activity.

Inspiration

Situations where the Phillips 6/6 dynamic can be useful:
  • Generating ideas for creative projects.
  • Identifying quick solutions to specific problems.
  • Exploring different perspectives on a topic.
  • Reflecting on complex concepts as a team.
  • Making group decisions efficiently.
  • Prioritizing actions in a project or initiative.
  • Evaluating proposals in their early stages.
  • Encouraging equal participation from all members.
  • Gathering diverse opinions in a large group.
  • Planning strategies in a short amount of time.
  • Developing collaborative approaches to solving challenges.
  • Facilitating debates on controversial or complex topics.
  • Preparing teams for larger-scale activities.
  • Promoting cohesion and idea exchange in newly formed teams.