The value of the observer during group activities
During a group activity, such as an Urban Hunt or a laser shoot in the Diest area, the focus often lies entirely on the physical or tactical execution. However, a participant who is not directly participating in the action at that moment can play a crucial role. Instead of merely watching, someone can take on the role of an observer to recognise patterns in communication and cooperation. This offers a different perspective on the progress of the task without the active participants needing to lose their focus.
A role without physical pressure
Not every participant feels comfortable stepping directly into the active fray during an outdoor activity. For some group members, the physical effort or the speed of a game can feel overwhelming. By offering an observation role, this person receives a meaningful task that requires no physical strength or speed, but does demand mental alertness.
This approach ensures that everyone contributes to the collective goal. The observer can concentrate on the group dynamics, while the active players focus entirely on the task itself. This can help to lower the pressure on the group as a whole, as the responsibility for the process is shared.
Using an observation card
To make observations concrete, one can work with a simple card. Instead of sharing general impressions, the observer can look specifically for certain signals. Think, for example, of how instructions are passed on or how the group reacts to unexpected situations during an activity in the city.
A hypothetical example of such a card could consist of three columns: 'What was done', 'How was communication handled', and 'What was the effect'. If a group is performing a task, for instance, the observer can note whether communication was clear or if confusion arose. This makes the subsequent feedback factual and useful for the group.
Valuable feedback for the group
The power of the observer truly emerges during the evaluation moment. Because the observer was not in the middle of the action, there is more room for reflection. The feedback is not based on the emotion of the game, but on the observed processes. This offers the active participants a mirror that they often cannot see for themselves during the game.
It is important that this feedback is presented as a tool for improvement rather than a judgement. The observer can use the collected data to ask questions that prompt the group to think, such as: 'I noticed that communication stopped when the time pressure increased; how did you experience that?'
Integration into your planning
When you programme a day with activities such as city golf or an escape room, you can consider in advance whether an observer role is appropriate. This is particularly interesting for groups with varying preferences for physical exertion. It offers an option for meaningful involvement without anyone feeling excluded.
You can prepare this concept as follows: determine in advance who will take on the role of process monitor and which criteria they may follow. By discussing this beforehand, the observation becomes an integral part of the task instead of an afterthought. This strengthens the collective learning experience of the entire group.
Tips for the observer
- Focus on the interaction between group members rather than the score.
- Note specific moments where cooperation went well or less well.
- Use a structured format to limit subjectivity.
- Share findings in a constructive manner during the evaluation.
Put your plans into action
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