Name Game
A game on unconscious bias can be an effective tool for teaching about this important topic for several reasons:
Engagement: A game can be a fun and engaging way to introduce the topic of unconscious bias, capturing the attention of participants and creating a more memorable learning experience.
Active learning: A game can encourage active learning and participation, allowing participants to apply the concepts and principles of unconscious bias in a practical way.
Experiential learning: A game can provide an experiential learning opportunity, allowing participants to explore and reflect on their own unconscious biases and assumptions.
Safe space: A game can create a safe space for participants to discuss sensitive topics and share their experiences and perspectives, which can lead to greater empathy, understanding, and acceptance.
Diversity and inclusion: A game can promote diversity and inclusion by highlighting the importance of recognizing and valuing different perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds.
One short activity you can use to teach and talk about unconscious bias is called the "Name Game." Here's how it works:
Ask the group to form a circle and introduce themselves by stating their name and one thing they like.
Then, ask everyone to close their eyes and picture a CEO in their mind.
Ask them to think about the first name that comes to mind for the CEO.
Ask the group to open their eyes and share the name they thought of.
Ask everyone to take note of the names that were mentioned.
Then, ask the group to close their eyes again and picture a kindergarten teacher in their mind.
Ask them to think about the first name that comes to mind for the kindergarten teacher.
Ask the group to open their eyes and share the name they thought of.
Ask everyone to take note of the names that were mentioned.
Facilitate a discussion about how the names that were mentioned may be influenced by unconscious biases, such as gender, race, age, or other factors.
You can use this activity to encourage a discussion about how our unconscious biases can affect our perceptions and decision-making, even when we don't realize it. Overall, a game on unconscious bias can be a valuable tool for increasing awareness, promoting dialogue, and facilitating behavior change around this critical topic.
