Fishbowl Exercises- Group Communication

What is a Fishbowl?

Fishbowl is a strategy used not only in classrooms but also in business meetings and other settings where group dynamics are important. This technique allows for a richer discussion of any given topic, and it frequently helps build community by focusing attention on the ways that particular group might work together more productively. In a communications classroom, it also demonstrates how different groups can collaborate to construct meaning and accomplish tasks through communication techniques. During the fishbowl there will be two groups; one with a task and one that is observing the group with the task. The groups will switch during the round so that each group will have the opportunity to be both a participant and an observer. During each fishbowl round you will be either “in” the fishbowl as a participant or you will be “outside” the fishbowl as an observer.

Directions for the Fishbowl Rounds

  • The group “in the fishbowl” should place their desks in a circle.
  • The group “out of the fishbowl” should place their desks in a larger circle surrounding the fishbowl group.
  • You should be able to observe and listen to the comments being made by the members “in the fishbowl.”
  • As an observer you are not allowed to make comments or contribute to the discussion in any way.
  • You should watch the group dynamics of the “in the fishbowl” group for communication styles, task, maintenance, and individual roles, conflict management, decision making techniques, etc.
  • Look for norms that may appear along with leadership and organizational methods used to accomplish the task.
  • Use your observer worksheet to make notes (the questions should help guide you).
  • Be prepared to discuss the group dynamics you observed with your Home group after the rounds are complete. Be sure and pick-up your “fish food” for your Home group discussion.
  • At the end of the day you will turn in your observer worksheet to receive credit for the activity.

Round One- Space Survival

Area 1: Yellow “in the fishbowl” - Pink “out of the fishbowl”

Area 2: Green “in the fishbowl” - Orange “out of the fishbowl”

Round Two- Plane Crash

Area 1: Pink “in the fishbowl” - Yellow “out of the fishbowl”

Area 2: Orange “in the fishbowl” - Green “out of the fishbowl“