Spectrogram

From Harambee Wiki

The purpose of the spectrogram is to show varying perspectives on topics/issues related to the theme of the session - patents and innovation.

In a spectrogram, colored tape is laid out across an open floor - stretching long enough to fit all participants standing. One end of the tape is marked as “Strongly Agree”, and the opposite end is labeled as “Strongly Disagree”. Cross-marks are made at the 25%, 50%, and 75% points along the line. (Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, Strongly Disagree)

A short demo of how the spectrogram exercise works is done. Volunteers will asked to stand on the line in response to a "test" question ie. "Breakfast is the most important meal of the day". Each person will position themselves along the line. It is helpful to plan this in advance so that each person will position themselves at different points in the line ie. at strongly agreee, neutral and strongly disagree. Each person is asked to explain why they took the position that they did.

The host for the session explains the process in slightly more detail and answers questions for clarification if any. Participants are then read a short, controversial or extreme statement. Those who agree with the statement are invited to move toward the “Strongly Agree” end of the line, positioning themselves closer to the end if their agreement is complete and towards the center if their agreement is mixed. Those who disagree with the statement are invited to do the same in the opposite direction.

The host then “interviews” people along the line, asking them why they are standing where they are. Passion is encouraged in describing positioning, and listeners are encouraged to shift their position on the spectrogram as points are made which alter their thinking and perspective on the question.

Examples of “short, controversial or extreme statements” from Aspiration's “Penguin Day” events have included:

• “It is never OK to use proprietary software”
• “Non-profits should never use Free and Open Source Software”
• “Information should always be free”
• “User input is more important than developer talent to assure successful non-profit software projects”

Such statements are deliberately structured to be vague and ambiguous, and participants are encouraged to interpret the statements in whatever way they see fit. The result is often a brisk emergence of community and conversation amongst the participants and a good 'mapping' of the topics and opinions that people want to explore and discuss. Spectrograms can also result in a lot of spontaneous laughter, which is an excellent way to build the energy of the day. (above is taken from Aspriation's website).