GROUP FORMATION TRAINING

Group Formation and Strengthening Modules for Farmers Groups
(FG)
Background
Check
Appreciative enquires of the group (capacity Assessment Check)
Time:
major contents of
topic:
To carry out an internal appraisal of the association. Helps to determine the areas
for intervention
learning process
and methods:
Group Discussion, Brainstorming
key questions
related to topic:
Checklist: Registration, Constitution Availability and Understanding, Leadership
Structure & Tenor, Roles & Responsibilities of Leaders Clear, Regularity of
Meetings, Budget availability and Accounting methods etc
Module 1: Introduction to the formation of a FG
title of module: Introduction to the formation of a FG
Time: 1h 30 min.
purpose: introducing the major conceptual elements of a FG
learning objectives: at the end of the extension module group members are able to:
- explain the need of small-scale farmers for forming groups for improved
participation in development and better access to services and markets
- describe the purpose of agricultural FGs
- describe the advantages and disadvantage of working in a group
major topics of the
module:
- why do small-scale farmers need a FG?
- what are the purposes of a FG?
- what are the advantages and disadvantages of working in a FG?
topic 1: Why do small-scale farmers need to come together and form a FG?
Time: 20 min.
major contents of
topic:
- the basic idea behind forming FGs: to share responsibility and authority between
members so as to achieve their objectives and remove obstacles to progress that
would be difficult to achieve individually
learning process
and methods:
Starter with sticks & Yarn Coil exercise, group discussion, brainstorming, interaction
where possible with members of a well functioning group, Role play Farmers plight 1
learning objectives: Create awareness about the need to organize.
Materials needed: Bundle of sticks some rope. Gather about 10 sticks of 30cm. Give one stick to a
member and ask him to break it. Next tie the remaining sticks together with the rope
and ask the member again to break the bundle.
key questions
related to topic:
- ask the participants what their observations are concerning the sticks.
- What do these observations mean for a group?
- Can you give examples of things that can be easier solved by a group then by an
individual?

Exercise Yarn Coil Exercise
Time:
major contents of
topic:
to depict the importance of everybody in the association and the need for team work
learning process
and methods:
Use of a yarn Coil to Form a network between the participants and depict to
importance of working together and importance of each member in the group.
key questions
related to topic:
- Ask Participants to interpret what they have formed with the Yarn Coil and
their observation?
- What if a member drops his part of the yarn coil?
summarising
reflexion on topic:
Participants should be able to see importance of working as a group and importance
of individuals in the groups.
Topic 1a: Role play: Farmers plight 1
Time: 30 min.
Materials needed: Role-play. Select 5 members from the group. The play is about 3 farmers on the
market trying to sell their crop. A buyer appears and starts to bargain with the
different farmers about the price. By providing false information on the actual market
price he manages to play the farmers against each other and purchase the crop of all
3 for a fraction of the actual price. The farmers are discontent but only see their plight
when a well informed farmer passes by and informs them about the real price. This
results in a decision by the farmers to come together and discuss how they can avoid
being continuously being exploited.
learning process
and methods:
Through the play members are made aware of the importance of coming together to
discuss and try to find solutions to a common problem.
key questions
related to topic:
Why did the farmers sell their crop for such a bad price?
How can coming together be a way of solving this type of problems?
Do you know any other problems that might be solved by coming together?
summarising
reflection on topic:
participants should be able to see the benefits of working together.
Topic 2: What could be the main purposes of a FG?
Time: 20 min.
major contents of
topic:
Major purposes of small-scale farmer groups could include:
- to plan and implement common activities in the framework of stipulated group
objectives.
- training and capacity building of members according to their identified needs and
priorities
- to build linkages with other public and private sector institutions/companies for
interest lobbying and mobilising resources and services as well as business
contacts/contracts
- to network with other FGs or community based organisations
learning process
and methods:
introductory lecture justifying each function by an example, group discussion
key questions
related to topic:
- looking back to the role play discussion, what do you think could be the major
purposes of your FG?
summarising
reflexion on topic:
participants should be able to describe the major purposes of a FG and justify the
rationale behind each purpose
Topic 3: What are the advantages and disadvantages of working in groups?
Time: 20 min.
major contents of
topic:
- identifying and discussing the main advantages and disadvantages of working in a
group

learning process
and methods:
Group discussion and brainstorming, participants reflect about topic 1, which should
enable them to come up with the main advantages and disadvantages.
key question
related to topic:
- what are the advantages of a working in a group?
- what are the disadvantages of working in a group?
summarising
reflexion on topic:
Participants should have a clear understanding of the various advantages and
disadvantages of working in a group and the implications for them.
Remarks for the
facilitator:
You can use the handout on advantages and disadvantages as a guide.
Extension guidelines on promotion of farmer group formation & strengthening
Module 2: Initial organisational development of the group
title of module: Discussing of and agreeing on the characteristics of a group, the rules &
regulations of the group, rights & responsibilities of members, the group
representatives and their roles& responsibilities.
Time: 3h 20 min. (2 days)
purpose: the FG is laying an organisational basis for its effective functioning
learning objectives: at the end of the extension module group members have actively participated in
laying the organisational basis for their group and are able to:
- name the most important rules and regulations of the group and explain the need
for them.
- explain the rights & responsibilities of group members and leaders/representatives
major topics of
module:
- discuss and agree on the main characteristics of a FG.
- discuss and agree on the rules and regulations of the FG.
- discuss and agree on responsibilities of FG members
- discuss and agree on the group leaders/representatives required in the group and
their major roles & responsibilities.
Exercise Tower of Babel
Time:
major contents of
topic:
To depict importance of having a Foundation in forming a group.
learning process
and methods:
Use of Card Board Paper, Old newspapers and A4 Papers to build a Tower by
different groups. Tower must be tall and stand on it’s own.
key questions
related to topic:
Why is the Tower able to stand on it’s own?
How does it relate to our Group
summarising
reflexion on topic:
Participants should be able to see importance of having a good reason for (Objective)
for coming together as a group
Topic 2a: What is a FG and what are the main characteristics?
Time: 30 min.
major contents of
topic:
- what is a group: groups comprise of people who meet regularly for a specific
purpose and carry out together self-determined activities for the benefit of their
members and their improved participation and empowerment in agricultural
development
- group membership: major criterions for groupings in FGs are common interests in
agricultural development of small-scale farmers with similar development
constraints, needs and potential.. Since there is a need to regularly come together
for group activities it is required that members live relatively close to each other.

Important for sustainable group development concept is also that groups consist of
people bound by mutual trust and respect who are prepared to support one another
and amongst whom exploitative relationships do not exist. If members are from too
diverse backgrounds there may be conflicts of interest in the group or a few
members may tend to dominate the group
- size of a group: the ideal size of a FG is 10 to 20 farmers. In bigger groups
members may find it difficult to participate effectively. They more often also tend to
fall apart easier due to difficulties in accommodating a larger number of interests
and in building up trust and confidence amongst members.
- the group has elected leaders and other functionaries (e.g. a secretary, a treasurer)
as may be required, these are elected/rotated at agreed intervals.
- voluntary in nature: members attend meetings and participate in group activities
voluntarily
- democratic nature: meetings of the group should be managed in such a way that
each member is encouraged to express himself/herself freely and participate
effectively in all group proceedings and decision-makings
- non-political nature: individual political interests of members should not be allowed
to influence group work and affect relationship with other members
- rules and regulations: the group frames rules and regulation which are required for
its effective functioning. They should be understood, accepted and followed by all
members
- gender aspects: for socio-cultural reasons mixed groups are often not preferred;
groups therefore often consist of either only men or only women
learning process
and methods:
introductory lecture, group discussions.
key questions
related to topic:
- what is a FG group?
- who should be members of the group?
- what is likely to improve the conditions in the group?
summarising
reflexion on topic:
members should be able to describe why members of a SHG should have similar
interests, socio-cultural backgrounds and mutual trust and respects for another
topic 2b: Discuss and agree on major rules and regulations of the FG
Time: 45 min.
major contents of
topic:
- discuss and agree on the major rules and regulations to be followed in the FG.
Required are simple rules which reflect the nature of group activities and answer
the immediate needs of the group to organise itself. It is important that each FG
frames its own rules and regulations in order that they are accepted and
understood by group members. The group should also discuss the need for
sanctions or penalties for the violation of rules; in case these are felt to be needed
the group should specify them precisely. Rules should be periodically reviewed and
modified, if necessary. The agreed upon rules should be recorded in the minutes
book of the group
learning process
and methods:
short introductory lecture with reference to the results of previous discussions on the
different aspects which could be relevant; Role play to demonstrate the need for rules
& regulations; group discussions by various rules and regulations relevant for the FG
with its specific objectives. The group should aim at achieving consensus on simple
and realistic rules acceptable to all/most members
key question
related to topic:
- what rules and regulations are required in the FG that it can function effectively
areas for which
common
agreement on
rules and
regulations may be
needed
agreement may have to be achieved in the group on the following aspects:
a) membership related:
- who may join the group in terms of agricultural background, living in the same
village, age and gender (male, female or mixed) of members
- what should be the group size (range)
- non refundable membership fee: in case found necessary by the group members
they should also agree on the fee per year and payment date(s)

- procedure for joining the group and cancelling membership
b) group meetings
- frequency, timing and locations of meetings: for improving discipline and certainty it
is often an advantage that meetings take place regularly on a fixed day, at a fixed
place and time
- members who cannot be present in a meeting or are expected to be late for a
meeting should notify the group leader. The group may agree on the imposing of
penalties for members repeatedly not complying with such a rule
- for decisions to be taken on important specified matters like rules and regulations,
elections, group objectives the group should decide on a minimum percentage (e.g.
75%) of members who must be present
- especially on important aspects decisions should generally be taken by consensus,
this influences positively the acceptance of the decision and implementation; for
situations for which consensus cannot be achieved a group may decide that a
majority vote for example of at least 75% of all group members is sufficient for
reaching a decision
c) participation in group activities
- participation of all or most of the members in common group activities and taking
ownership should be strongly encouraged. The same applies if training is
organised for group members or for representatives of the group
Topic2c Role play: Stick to the rules
Time: 20 min.
Materials needed: Role-play. Select 6-8 members from the group. The play is about a group meeting in
which a discussion is going on about admitting a new member. The new member
does not really fit in the group but some are in favour because they know the person
very well. The group seems to agree to admit the new member when one of the
members, who is late once again (4
th
time), joins the meeting and first wants to know
what is being discussed. After being told he should have been there in time he is told
about the groups decision. He becomes angry and expresses his discontent with the
groups’ intention.
learning process
and methods:
Through the play members are made aware of the importance of clear rules for
different issues important to the groups functioning. (e.g. admittance of new
members, rules for attending meetings, decision making procedures,……)
key questions
related to topic:
Should the new member be admitted or not and why?
What do you think about the latecomer?
How should we deal with this kind of situations?
summarising
At the end of the module members have become aware of the need for certain rules
and regulations in order to prevent conflicts and misunderstandings
Topic3: discuss and agree on major rights & responsibilities of members
Time: 20 min.
major contents of
topic:
- the group should discuss and agree on the key rights and responsibilities of group
members
learning process
and methods:
short introductory lecture with reference to the results of previous discussion on this
topic; role play to demonstrate the difference between rights & responsibilities;
brainstorming and group discussion; prepare a list of the opinions of members;
consolidate this list together with the participants in to relevant rights &
responsibilities acceptable to all members
key question
related to topic:
- what are rights and responsibilities of a member of the FG?
- what is the difference between a right and a responsibility?
topic 3a: Role play: The irresponsible & ignored
Time: 20 min.
Materials needed select 6-8 members from the group. The play is about a meeting about the groups’
preparations for the new planting season. The chairman goes from member to
member to get information about the tasks that were agreed upon during the last

meeting. One of the members, who was sick when the last meeting took place, asks
to be informed about the outcome of the last meeting so that he can participate in the
discussions. The chairman says that he thinks there is no time now and that they
better continue. The member sits down and does not participate in the rest of the
meeting. The next member to report was given money to arrange the collective
purchase of certain inputs from the supplier. However when asked about the
arrangements he tells the others that he didn’t have time to go to the supplier but that
he will go next week. This means that the members cannot start preparations as
planned and will loose valuable time. Members are angry and demand back their
money and say they will make their own arrangements for purchasing the inputs.
major contents of
topic:
Role-play, reflection on the consequences of members not taking their responsibilities
seriously.
learning process
and methods:
Through the play group members become aware of the importance for members to
inform themselves, their right on information and stick to their promises and realize
that not taking your responsibilities will have a negative impact on group activities and
threatens the sustainability of the group.
key questions
related to topic:
- what do you think about the treatment of the member who was sick last meeting?
- what are the consequences of the negligence of the one member for the other
members and the group as a whole?
summarising
At the end of the module participants will have started to understand their rights and
responsibilities as members of a group and the importance of common agreement on
rules, regulations, rights and responsibilities.
Remarks for the
facilitator:
The play contains 3 messages. First it is the responsibility of every member to
make sure he or she is informed about the group matters. Secondly it is the
right of every member to be informed about what goes on in the group and
thirdly the negligence of 1 member affects all others and the group as a whole.
summarising
reflexion on topic:
group members should be able to explain their rights & responsibilities towards the
FG and be aware of the consequences to the group as a whole, if individuals in the
group do not fulfil their responsibilities
topic 4: Leadership: discuss and agree on the group representatives required and their
major roles & responsibilities
Time: 45 min.
major contents of
topic:
- discuss and agree on the leader(s) and other representatives required in the group
- by identified group representative identify, discuss and agree upon their major
responsibilities
learning process
and methods:
lecture, role play, group discussion; the group should aim at achieving consensus on
a simple organisational structure acceptable to all/most members
Exercise Leadership: Definition and styles (Duck Puzzle)
Time:
major contents of
topic:
Types of Leadership styles (Autocratic, Democratic and Laisser-faire)
learning process
and methods:
Exercise: A duck is drawn on a cardboard paper and made into a puzzle. 3 groups
are given the same puzzle and the leaders are briefed. The leaders determine
outcome of the group success in the exercise.
Brain storming, Group Discussion, Presentations
key questions
related to topic:
What is Leadership?
Different types of Leadership and Examples
summarising
reflexion on topic:
Participants are able to understand the different types of Leadership and this will help
influence their choice of Leaders.

key questions
related to topic:
- which organisational structure and group representatives are needed in the group
- what should be the major responsibilities/functions of group representatives to
ensure an effective functioning of the FG
possible
organisational
structure, group
representatives
and their major
functions to be
agreed upon
- after identifying its possible purpose the group should decide which organisational
structure and group representatives they need and for which major functions
- the minimum needed in all groups is a group leader. The major responsibilities and
functions of a group leader can include:
- to co-ordinate the activities of the group and to ensure that they are conducted
effectively in accordance with the set objectives and rules and regulations
- to provide leadership in developing a strategic direction for the group
- to ensure that meetings take place regularly and are conducted in a participatory,
unbiased, fair and productive way
- to ensure the participation of all members in the proceedings of meetings and
facilitate effective decision making in the group
- to facilitate and manage the identification, planning and implementation process
of group activities
- to encourage all members to fully participate in group activities and training
programmes
- to facilitate good working relationship between group members and contribute
that conflicts which may arise are solved in an amicable and just manner
- to build linkages with external public and private support services and represent
the group externally
- to share with members all information gathered while attending meetings and
training programmes on behalf of the group
- to ensure that other elected group representatives carry out their functions
according to the rules and regulations decided upon by the group
- groups have furthermore to decide on the need for a deputy group leader who
would assist the group leader in his functions and deputise for him in his absence
- groups with several activities and who are also administering finances may also
require a treasurer/bookkeeper for administering group finances and related
bookkeeping, internal auditors and a secretary for the support of the group
management in administrative and management matters
- further organisational arrangements may be required in groups with larger
commercial activities
Topic 5 Types of Team members
Time:
major contents of
topic:
To understand the different kinds of people that make up a group.
learning process
and methods:
Brainstorming, Use of Lectures / Presentations. Group Discussions
key questions
related to topic: What type of people are in a group (i.e. the mover, the opponent, the follower and the
Bystander or observer.)
Which is most important and which is not so important.
summarising
reflexion on topic:
All members in the group are important, Group has to harness the potential of all
members.
Topic 5a: Role play: Don’t take everything for granted
Time: 20 min.
purpose: Create awareness about the importance of good leadership.
learning objectives: - to learn that the leadership can make or break the success of a group or
organization

Materials needed: Select 6 to 8 members from the group for the leadership role-play. To illustrate the
need for good leadership, rules and regulations. From these 1 person is the leader, 1
person is a close ally of the leader and 1 is a critical member. The others are normal
group members. The 3 people with specific roles are instructed separately so that no
one knows the role of the other.
The Leader is told that he wants to sell the crop through a relative who has
promised him a hefty commission. He has to try and convince others in the group
to sell through him
The Ally is told that the leader has promised him a cut in the deal if he supports
him during the meeting.
The Critical Member is told that the leader has found a buyer and wants to
discuss with the group. He is instructed to try and find out what the details of the
deal are to see if the deal is good or whether there are any alternatives.
The Normal Members are just told that there is a meeting called by the leader to
discuss the sale of this seasons sesame harvest.
The meeting takes between 15 and 30 minutes. After the meeting first the players are
asked one by one to tell about their experiences and what they think about the other
players. Next the observers are asked the same questions. After all have shared their
thoughts the 3 main players are asked to disclose their real intentions and roles.
learning process
and methods:
role play, discussions about the perceptions of members and the roles of the different
players, presentation by players of their real motives and intentions.
key questions
related to topic:
- first ask players without specific instructions: What do you think was going on in the
meeting and what did you think about the roles of the other players.
- next ask the observers: What do you think was going on in the meeting and what
did you think about the roles of the other players.
- AT the end ask players with specific instructions: Please explain your roles and
intentions.
summarising
Through this role play group members should become aware one should not take
anything for granted and that in each group there is a need for specific rules and
regulations.
Remarks for the
facilitator:
Make sure that the players are well instructed and do not know about their
specific roles in order to ensure the expected outcome.

Module 3: Introduction & discussion of principles in group proceedings
title of module: proceedings in group meetings including how to conduct group meetings,
elections, decision-making, communication, conflict resolution
Time: 2 h 40 min. (2 days)
purpose: members learn how to organise meetings, elect their leadership, carry out effective
communication and interact with other group members more effectively
learning
objectives:
at the end of the extension module group members are able to:
- explain the process to elect the groups leadership and officials
- explain the process to be followed while conducting a group meeting
- state why achieving consensus amongst members in deciding about important
group matters is of importance for broad ownership development, acceptance and
participation in implementation
- list principles and factors important for successful communication in a group
major topics of
module:
- election of leadership and officials
- purpose and conduct of regular group meetings
- decision-making in a group
- factors promoting the effectiveness of communication in a group
- how to deal with conflicts
topic 1: election of group representatives
Time: 20 min.
major contents
of topic:
- the group elects the group leader/facilitator and other representatives of the group
as may have been decided by the group
learning process
and methods:
in accordance with the understanding already reached amongst group members on
how they would like to organise their FG (Module 2, topic 4) the group elects at least
a group leader. The group should elect a suitable person to chair the election process
of the group leader. Thereafter the elected group leader should chair any other
elections of other group functionaries as may be necessary. The group should aim at
achieving consensus especially in the election of the group leader who should be an
acceptable person for all/most members
key questions
related to topic:
- who should become the leader/facilitator of the FG for the period from ... to....
- etc. according to the persons who may have to be elected for different functions
summarising
reflexion on
topic:
members should be able to name all persons elected and the time period for which
they were elected
summarising
reflexion on
topic:
participants should be able to explain the importance of regular meetings as well as
describe the steps involved in conducting a meeting and the justification for this
procedure
topic 2: purpose and conduct of regular group meetings
Time: 20 min.
major contents
of topic:
- purpose of a FG meeting: a group meeting provides a platform for meaningful
interactions between group members on specified subjects of common interest and
assists also the group to perform its functions
- importance of regular meetings: they provide regular opportunities for group
members to interact with each other, to strengthen their capacities as well as
communication skills. It also provides a forum for identifying, discussing, planning
and monitoring group activities
- conduct of a meeting: members should be informed/remembered timely of the date,
time, place and major topic(s) of each meeting in order to ensure always a high
attendance. In many cases groups will start their meetings with prayers. After
his/her welcome address the group leader/facilitator will record the attendance,
introduce the agenda and review where relevant the previous meeting’s

minutes/resolutions and relevant actions/activities carried out since the last meeting
on common group activities, contacts to other organisations and the upcoming
activities. The group/group leader ensures that all points of the agenda are
discussed in a systematic and orderly way. He/she encourages members to fully
participate in the discussions and where relevant in decision-making. Before a vote
of thanks is spoken at the end of the meeting the group leader summarises the
major results of the meeting and repeats the major decisions/resolutions taken
during the meeting
learning process
and methods:
- brainstorming, group discussions, short introductory lecture on the conditions and
procedures for conducting a meeting
key questions
related to topic:
- what are major purposes of group meetings
- why are regular meetings important
- what are the major steps in the conduct of a meeting
summarising
reflexion on
topic:
participants should be able to explain the importance of regular meetings as well as
describe the steps involved in conducting a meeting and the justification for this
procedure
Topic 3: decision-making in a FG
Time: 20 min.
major contents
of topic:
- a decision is adequately implemented only if those responsible for its
implementation accept and take ownership of the decision
- different decision-making styles may be used in different contexts. In FGs decision-
making by consensus or collective decision-making is generally most effective.
Experiences has shown that such decisions stand much better chances of broad
acceptance and participation in implementation, improve relationships and
minimise conflicts amongst members of a group
- to reach agreement by all/nearly all group members requires detailed discussions
and exchange of opinions and positions on the available options related to a topic
to be decided
learning process
and methods:
- brainstorming and group discussion on factors which may promote or hinder the
process of achieving a wide consensus in decision-making
key questions
related to topic:
- why should a group aim at taking important decisions by broad consensus
summarising
reflexion on
topic:
participants should be able to explain why achieving consensus in decision-making
related to important group matters is important
topic 4a: factors promoting the effectiveness of communication in a group
Time: 20 min.
major contents
of topic:
- communication involves the process of both sending and receiving information
between persons using a language which the receiver can understand
- mutual acceptance, trust and positive attitudes among interacting persons increase
the effectiveness of communication
- a circular seating arrangement helps in democratic communication
- only one person should speak at a time to minimise chaos and noise
- side-talks should not be tolerated since it will distract at least some of the
participants
- members should be encouraged and be given a chance to voice their experiences
and opinions
- the effectiveness, transparency and follow-up of communication is supported, if all
important points of discussions and decisions taken in a meeting are documented
and implementation of decisions is monitored in later meetings
learning process
and methods:
- short introductory lecture, group exercise and group discussion

Exercise Group communication: “Did you hear that?”
learning
objectives:
Show how bad communication in a group negatively affects the functioning of the
whole group.
Materials
needed:
All members of the group. Make them sit in a circle. Instruct one member separately
about the message to be passed. Instruct all members to listen to the message and
pass it on without others being able to hear (whisper in ear).
major contents
of topic:
Role-play, discussions.
learning process
and methods:
Compare the original message with the message presented by the last member in
the chain and let group members discuss their observations and the benefits of good
communication.
Key questions
related to topic:
Why do you think there is a difference between the original message and the one
presented by the last member?
How can we as a group avoid this kind of misunderstandings?
summarising
reflection on
topic:
Members should have a common understanding about the importance of clear and
regular communication between themselves.
Remarks for
the facilitator:
Choose a message which is complex enough to make sure that message at the
end differs from the one at the start. E.g. the price of complete fertilizer at Ali’s
shop is 12,550 Naira, which is 1,250 Naira cheaper than at the shop of Ahmed
where it costs 13,800 Naira.
summarising
reflexion on
topic:
participants should be able to explain the process
Topic 4b: how to deal with conflicts
Time: 20 min.
major contents
of topic:
- different experiences, expectations and attitudes of members may result in
disagreement and may eventually even create conflict in a group. Poor
communication and lack of mutual acceptance and trust can reinforce conflicts.
Unresolved conflicts can severely affect relationships and hinder group functioning
- conflicts cannot always be prevented from occurring. Different approaches exist to
conflict resolution. Most effective is generally the open resolution of conflicts in a
problem-solving approach in which the actual factors causing conflict are openly
recognised and differences are accepted and resolved in a collaborative way
- the following could be logical steps in a problem solving approach:
- openly discuss the conflict including what led to the situation, who is involved and
listening of everybody’s point of view
- listing out possible solutions to the conflict and their pros and cons, taking into
account ideas of members
- adopting and implementing the most effective and collective solution
- review and follow-up to see if the conflict has been satisfactorily resolved or if not
what else needs to be done
- in exceptional cases an external person acceptable and respected by the different
parties involved may need to be called in to moderate conflict resolution
learning process
and methods:
- introductory lecture, brainstorming and group discussions on how minimise conflicts
and the steps to be taken in a group to solve conflicts
key questions
related to topic:
- why do conflicts arise?
summarising
reflexion on
participants should be able to explain the process

topic:
Topic 4c: Conflict Resolution (Letter E game)
Time:
major contents
of topic:
To Understand Conflict and Conflict Resolution concept.
learning process
and methods:
Exercise (Letter E game): The letter E is drawn on a sheet of A4 paper and drop on
the floor, Four participants are told to stand on the four sides of the A4 paper and
interpret what they see from their side (i.e E, 3,M or W)
Brainstorming, Group Discussion.
key questions
related to topic:
What is conflict?
Conditions leading to conflict situations in organisation
Conflict resolution in a group
summarising
reflexion on
topic:
Participants are made to understand that there are different views from which a
situation can be looked at.
Topic 5: Stages of group development
Time:
major contents
of topic:
To depict the different stages of a groups development
learning process
and methods:
Use of Lectures / Presentations. Group Discussions
key questions
related to topic:
What process does a group pass through in it’s development
What can hinder successful development of a group.
summarising
reflexion on
topic:
Participants should understand the four stages of group development (forming,
storming, norming, and performing stages) with particular emphasis on the storming
stage.
Factors that could lead to the mourning stage
Topic 6: Life cycle of a FG
Time: 1h
major contents
of topic:
A starting FG has to go a number of growth stages (infant, toddler, adolescent, prime)
in order to develop into a well functioning organization.
learning process
and methods:
- Role-play with 4 scenes, discussions
Role-play Scene 1: Farmers plight 1
Materials
needed
Select 5 members from the group. The play is about 3 farmers on the market trying to
sell their crop. A buyer appears and starts to bargain with the different farmers about
the price. By providing false information on the actual market price he manages to
play the farmers against each other and purchase the crop of all 3 for a fraction of the
actual price. The farmers are discontent but only see their plight when a well informed
farmer passes by and informs them about the real price. This results in a decision by
the farmers to come together and discuss how they can avoid being continuously
being exploited.

Materials
needed
Use the same players from scene 1. This scene shows the 1
st
informal meeting. 2
people are waiting at the agreed time and location. Others arrive at will later than
agreed. When asked why they are late many excuses are brought up. The early
arrived show discontent and say they have to leave. The others discuss about this
and see that like this it will be difficult to work together. It is decided to convene
another meeting with objective to form a group and discuss their problems.
Materials
needed
Use the same players from scene 1 & 2 plus 3 extra. This scene shows the first
formal meeting of the new group. All are present on time and they want to discuss
their problems. All start talking in a disorganized way until 1 member makes a point
that they will need to get organized with some rules, responsibilities and leadership.
Members agree with consensus that the member who made the suggestion should
lead their meetings and discussions. The following discussion brings up the problem
that the group needs help to get properly organized. The leader will try to find support
for their efforts.
Materials
needed
Use the same players as in scenes 1,2 and 3. This scene shows the group after they
have been trained in group formation. At this point they are discussing their problems
and what they expect from the future for their business. They discuss what they
expect to achieve in production, processing and marketing.
key questions
related to topic:
- Can you explain the steps a FG has to go through in order to develop a sound basis
for further development?
summarising
reflexion on
topic:
participants should be able to explain the process and name they keys for success of
a FG
Remarks for
the facilitator:
You can use the handout on keys for success as a guide in the discussions.

Module 4: Review of the current situation, vision and obstacles related to agricultural
practices and activities of small-scale farmers
title of module: Review of the current situation, vision and obstacles related to agricultural
practices and activities of small-scale farmers
Time: 2h 45 min. (2 days)
purpose: identify vision, obstacles and potential options/solutions for improvements.
learning objectives: at the end of the extension module group members have actively participated in
discussing the current situation, their vision and respective problems regarding their
agricultural practices and activities and are able to:
- describe the current situation regarding their agricultural practices and activities.
- describe a realistic vision for their agricultural practices and activities
- describe the obstacles preventing the group to reach their vision.
- describe the root causes and effects of the obstacles.
major topics of
module:
- conduct a present situation analysis related to the agricultural practices & activities.
- discuss and agree on the groups vision
- identify the obstacles preventing the group from achieving their vision.
- construction of a problem tree.
topic 1: Conduct a present situation analysis related to their agricultural practices and
activities.
Time: 30 min.
major contents of
topic:
- analyse the current situation and conditions farmers are working under. This may
include information on services available (extension, coop, water), access to inputs,
market access, past achievements (for longer existing groups) or any others
influencing the farmers’ practices and activities.
learning process
and methods:
- short introduction in which the topic is explained, brainstorming on factors that
directly or indirectly influence their agricultural practices and activities. This should be
as objective as possible and exclude any subjective qualification on these factors.
key questions
related to topic:
- What services are available to you?
- Where do you purchase your inputs?
- How do you market your produce?
- What do you consider being your biggest achievement as a group?
summarising
reflexion on topic:
The group will be able to give an objective description of the current situation and are
aware of all the important factors influencing their practices.
topic 2: discuss and agree on the groups vision
Time: 30 min.
major contents of
topic:
- discuss and agreeing on a common vision for the FG: the vision should become
what the majority of members want to achieve together in the group.
learning process
and methods:
group discussion and brainstorming: make up a list of the visions of members;
consolidate this list together with the participants into a relevant and achievable vision
which is realistic and acceptable to all members. The vision is the common, long term
goal (e.g. =>5 years)
key questions
related to topic:
- what would you like to achieve by being a member of this FG group?

possible answers
include:
- to increase income from farming (could be an overall goal)
- to enhance knowledge and skills in farming (this could be further specified to certain
priority crops, livestock or to overall farm management skills) through improved
access to extension and training and exchange of information and experiences
amongst farmers (farmer to farmer extension)
- to improve the access to agricultural inputs and product markets
- to acquire/purchase goods and services which as individuals smallholders may not
be able to afford or it would not be economical due to small farm or enterprise sizes
- to carry out common tasks in farm development which cannot be performed by the
individual farmer alone (e.g. some aspects of on-farm water management)
- to gain knowledge and awareness on the functioning and services of various
relevant public and private sector organisations, development schemes, etc.
- to establish linkages and co-operation with other organisations relevant for farm
development
- to support other group members in times of need
summarising
reflexion on topic:
members should be able to describe a commonly agreed upon realistic vision
Remarks for the
facilitator:
You can refer to the results of the brainstorming exercise in Module 1 topic2:
What could be the main purposes of a FG? The results can form the basis for
the groups’ vision.
topic 3: identify the obstacles preventing the group from achieving their vision.
Time: 45 min.
major contents of
topic:
- identifying all the important factors that prevent the group from achieving their vision
(often short or medium term objectives).
learning process
and methods:
group discussion and brainstorming: members are asked to take the results from the
visioning exercise and determine what the problems are for achieving the vision.
Members are each asked to write (or mention) 3 problems on cards (1 problem, 1
card), which he or she deems to be the core problems in production, processing and
marketing. A problem is an existing, negative undesirable state e.g. inadequate input
supply or insufficient technical knowledge. Problems are then prioritized by the group
by letting each member vote on his/her 3 most important problems. Results are tallied
and ranked. The most voted on problems are the starting point for a problem tree.
key questions
related to topic:
- what is stopping you from realizing your vision?
- what are the problems in production, processing and marketing?
summarising
reflexion on topic:
members should be able to describe the core problem(s) preventing them from
achieving their common vision.
topic 4: construction of a problem tree.
Time: 60 min.
major contents of
topic:
Take the identified core problems (trunk of the tree) from topic 3 and arrange them
above and below each other in causes and effects to come to the root causes and
effects of the core problems.
learning process
and methods:
After agreement the causes and effects of the core problem are analysed and new
information is added to the roots of the tree by taking each problem and asking: “what
are the causes of this problem”. By doing this the root causes of the core problems
can be identified. By asking questions about the effects the root problems have on the
group and wider society the crown of the tree can be constructed.
key questions
related to topic:
- What are the causes of each core problem?
- What are the effects of each core problem?
summarising
reflexion on topic:
Members will have a clear idea of the underlying causes and the effects on wider
society of their main problems.

Remarks for the
facilitator:
It is very important to guide the members to the root causes of their problems. If
the root causes are not properly identified it will be difficult if not impossible to
design activities to solve the core problems.
Extension guidelines on promotion of BMO formation & strengthening
Module 5: Basic Records & Financial Management Skills
Topic 1: Record keeping (Group Account)
Time:
major contents of topic: Understand how to keep group Account
learning process and
methods:
Brainstorming, Group Discussion, Presentation
key questions related to
topic:
What makes up Records
How Often should record be kept
What is Budget?
summarising reflexion on
topic:
Participants have a simple template for record group income and expenditure that is
understandable to all members.
topic 10: Record keeping (Group Account)
Exercise Record keeping template
XYZ Monthly Account
Month_________________
Date Activity / Description Cash in (N) Cash Out (N) Balance (N)
03/05/11 B/F - - 11,600
03/05/11 Meeting Dues N100 from 15
people.
1500 - 13,100
05/05/11 Printing of Request for
courtesy visit letter at
Business centre
- 400 12,700
15/05/11 Transport to L.G.C to see
Chairman
- 1500 11,200
15/05/11 Gift from Chairman for
Transport
5000 - 16,200

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