DISCUSSION CARDS

Paradigm-stretching methods

The use of discussion cards is a method that employs question cards to support conversation and knowledge sharing in workplaces or groups. Through such cards, participants can share their experiences, perspectives and opinions on various themes, enabling deeper interaction and community building.

In the context of the green transition, this method can strengthen the environmental agency and identity of the health and care work community. The method helps the work community to learn a dialogic way of working.

What is required:

• Openness from the group to share their own experiences and perspectives
• Willingness to listen to and respect others' opinions
• A safe space for discussion, free from fear of judgement
• Clear instructions on the use of the cards and the rules of interaction

Level of difficulty: 2. The method is relatively simple but requires participants to be open and listen deeply to others' experiences.

Time required: 30–60 minutes, depending on the size of the group and the depth of the discussion.

Materials:

• Discussion cards (pre-made cards with questions, themes or topics for discussion)
• Writing tools, if participants wish to take notes

Participants: 4–12 participants. The group can come from various backgrounds, but it is important that everyone is willing to engage in open discussion.

How to use:

• Preparation: Before the discussion, prepare the discussion cards that contain questions or themes. The cards can be pre-printed or self-made, and the questions should be diverse and open-ended. Ensure that participants understand the purpose and goal of the method: sharing and listening without judgement. (For examples of discussion cards, see "Further information".)
• Start: Participants sit in a circle or a common space. Each person is given a discussion card, or the cards can be used in turns to ensure everyone participates. The card is used to open the discussion, and each person can share their experiences or views related to the card's topic.
• Discussion: Participants engage in a dialogue and share their thoughts on the card's topic. The facilitator can ask additional questions or help to guide the discussion if needed. The goal is for the discussion to be participatory and for everyone to have a voice.
• Reflection: After the discussion, participants can reflect on what they learned from each other's experiences and how these insights might impact their work. This can be done together as a group or individually by writing notes.
• Conclusion and summary: Finally, the facilitator can ask the group to consider what they can take away from the discussion. The discussion cards can also be used in future sessions to constantly bring up new perspectives.

When to use:

• Strengthening the team or group's cohesion
• In reflection or feedback sessions
• Addressing new themes or challenges
• In training sessions or workshops where diverse perspectives are desired

Why to use:

• To strengthen dialogue-based approaches
• To strengthen community and group cohesion and collaboration
• To allow different perspectives to be brought forward and increase common understanding
• To promote trust and empathy within the group

How to document:

• By writing down the key points and observations from the discussion
• Documentation can be done individually or as a group
• Notes can be taken on important insights and actions that can be developed based on the discussion
• Visual notes, such as maps or diagrams, can be used to illustrate the themes and conclusions of the discussion

The roots of the method can be found here: This method is based on theories of social learning and community. It draws partly from theories of creative thinking and discussion, such as Argyris and Schön's (1978) models of individual and community learning, where knowledge sharing and interaction are key elements. Additionally, the method draws from comparative research and studies of social interaction (e.g., Vygotsky 1978), where collective experience and shared discussion are central.

Further information:

Examples of discussion cards:

• Sustainable Development and Sustainable Entrepreneurship Discussion Cards (2018) - Oikarinen, T., Martikainen, S.-J., Parjanen, S., Hyypiä, M., Laakso, H.: This set focuses on issues of sustainable development and sustainable entrepreneurship. The cards help to explore how businesses can operate in environmentally friendly ways and promote a sustainable economy while navigating global challenges. Link to the cards: Sustainable Development and Sustainable Entrepreneurship Discussion Cards (2018)
• Work M&M Card Set – Counterforce to meaninglessness! (2025) - Martikainen, S.J., Oikarinen T., Mellanen L., Hyypiä M., & Parjanen, S.: This set is designed to address the meaningfulness and wellbeing in work life. It sparks discussions on workplace development and how to create counterforces to feelings of meaninglessness at the community and organisational levels. Link to the cards: Work M&M Card Set (2025)