Have you come across a Photo Deck or other set of Conversation Cards recently? You know those decks of innumerable glorious and provocative images? Perhaps you’ve seen them and wondered what use they might be. Photo Decks are popular for their huge variety of applications, especially as conversation starters. Some trainers and teachers even create their own with their phone camera, or by collecting postcards (back when travel was common!). Explore the dozens of ways you can use Photo Decks effectively and understand what makes a picture deck-worthy.
We’ve collected over a dozen ways that trainers, teachers, and therapists can use photo decks and photographic collections for a variety of learning activities:
Ask participants to select an image that reflects:
The value and interpretation of any image is really in the eyes of the beholder. Every person will see something different in an image, which is also what makes it fun to use pictures. Consider, for instance, the image of a bunch of pointed colored pencils. One might explain that they picked that card because it suggests…
A photo’s beauty isn’t enough to make it a good choice for inclusion in metaphoric photo decks. In addition to the image being clear and attractive, we look for these qualities:
Variety across images: Look for a collection of images to evoke a broad range of emotions, perspectives, interests, etc.
Versatility within an image: Be sure each image is rich enough that it can be used in a number of ways.
Viewpoints: Put yourself in others’ shoes and include images that might appeal to folks with different interests.
Trainers Warehouse has curated 9 collections. Each varies in size of the cards, number of images, price, and availability of facilitation notes.
Clearly, you have many options. And, if physical decks are not always practical because you’re working remotely, Trainers Warehouse has assembled a shareable collection of online photographs. To use these, virtual trainers can share the online link with attendees. Then, session participants can browse, select, download and discuss their favorite images.
Deckhive.com is another excellent tool to utilize online decks. It lets you select your favorite cards, swap them in and out, share notes, etc.
Whether you develop your own Photo Decks and conversation cards, or find one at Trainers Warehouse, you will surely get lots of use out of these incredibly versatile tools as memorable and useful conversation starters!
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