Problem-Solving
Marshmallow Challenge
Teams construct the tallest freestanding structure using spaghetti, tape, string, and a marshmallow. It's a classic for a reason. This activity builds connection, energy, and shared understanding through fun interaction.
Duration
20 mins
Group Size
12-40
Category
Problem-Solving
Energy
4
• Practice rapid prototyping and iteration
• Experience collaborative problem-solving
• Learn about team dynamics
• Demonstrate testing assumptions
• Experience collaborative problem-solving
• Learn about team dynamics
• Demonstrate testing assumptions
Teams will improve collaborative problem-solving skills. Participants gain awareness of team communication patterns. Expect higher engagement and concrete examples of shared values.
Try a mini version. Focus on a smaller scope or different constraints. This provides a fresh perspective and may resonate better with some groups.
Emphasize the "freestanding" requirement. Announce time remaining regularly. Connect the exercise to the design process. Sometimes, teams get frustrated, remind them it's about learning.
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