Earlier this week we were given a task that would really open our eyes to the way we think. We were split into 4 groups and the task was to design and present a resource we will make that we would give to a new student starting uni. We were also given an envelope containing different resources we would use to make our product. Every group set out busily to complete the mission, not noticing some groups had more than others… one groups envelope was filled to the brim with felt tip pens, scissors, coloured bits of cardboard, sellotape etc while another only had blu tac, paper clips and a pencil.
At the end each group presented their end product. People in the group that had lots of resources stuck their noses up at the less fortunate groups design without even thinking did they have everything we did? This is when the hidden message became clear. The task was not about making the best design possible, it was about realising that those with less are usually overlooked.
After the task we had a group discussion how about the group with lots of resources did not think to offer their mass of products with the lesser group as they did not even realise they had less. They were so engrossed in what they had they paid no attention to anyone else and sadly this is what happens in society.
This task brought to our attention clearly that not everyone is the same so it is impossible to treat everyone the same. You may have to give someone more attention, more help but that is OK because it is all about meeting peoples individual meets and requirements.
