Simulating conflicts PART 1 - Preparation

Description of the tool

Explanation of the simulation game: [30 min]
The whole "simulating conflict" activity is briefly explained: "The simulation game will be a work in progress for all the TC. We'll analyse different cases of conflicts (chosen by you) by simulating them. The first day is dedicated to the explanation and preparation, while in the other days you'll perform in turn and particular techniques will be added in order to analyse better the case. Every time we'll have a plenary reflection. In the last day the performance will be longer as different techniques will be used. REMEMBER THAT DURING THE TIME OF PERFORMANCES THE CONFLICT SHOULD REMAIN UNSOLVED, being that the base for the final resolution
Don't let your emotions and creativity be blocked by shyness, fear or sense of inadequacy. Remember what Augusto Boal says:" ACTORS AND NON-ACTORS: we all are HUMAN, we all are ARTISTS, we all are ACTORS!"

 GROUPS: participants should 3 groups of 9 respecting as far as possible gender/country/area balance. [10 min]
The tasks for the groups are:
A. GROUP A: simulation of a inter-group conflict
B. GROUP B: simulation of a inter-personal conflict
C. GROUP C: group of observers/reporters

After each group has been created they receive their tasks (HANDOUTS 1/2/3): the preparation is explained first to the actors groups (A and B), then these ones leave the room and the task to the observers (GROUP C) is explained. [30 min]

 TOPICS:
A. GROUP A should choose 1 topic of inter-groups conflicts (maybe arisen during the previous session). Conflicts can be related to democracy (draft of constitution), cultural diversity (minorities, emigration, etc.), paramilitary claims, neighbouring countries etc.
B. GROUP B should choose 1 topic of inter-personal conflicts (maybe arisen during the previous session).
C. GROUP C are explained their task: they have to split into 2 groups and observe the de-rolling of all the activity of discussion, preparation, rehearsing and performing. with the task of controlling the development of the activity from an objective way focusing on the occurring of conflicts, their management and possible resolution inside the group work. They don-t have to interact at all with the team they are observing

 ROLES: each participant will choose to play the part of a social actor that he will incarnate during the rest of his stay. Everyday new elements and events are added to the plot. Each ‘social actor’ will deal with parameters to issue statements, decisions and action.

For all the different roles individual and small group research (through library facilities and internet) will be fundamental to base and to substantiate everyone's position.

 PREPARATION: groups retire for preparing their cases, and have to fill the respective forms for the deadlines indicated (see handouts for preparation 1,2 and 3) . [160 min]