Description

Implementation:

This activity is based on the well-known example of game theory "the prisoner's dilemma", and can be implemented in different ways.

Step 1: Divide the group into two equal groups and write their numbers or names on the table. Then give the two teams the cards you have already prepared. Group 1 will receive the cards with the letters A and B and group 2 will receive the cards with the letters X and J. It is important to explain to the plenary that in each round each team will have to choose which of the two cards will play and place it closed in front of it.

Step 2: Write down on the table the following probabilities and points for each combination of letters the teams choose and explain that the purpose of the activity is to collect 20 points.

ΑΧ 3 3
ΑΨ-6+6
ΒΧ +6-6
ΒΨ-3 -3

Step 3: After each round, write down the score of each team on the board.

One very important observation that as an educator you have to pay attention to as one of the challenges of this activity is the following: It is likely that the teams will initially understand that the process is competitive and that each of them must score 20 points alone. Give them time to observe what is happening!

After completing some rounds, sum up each team's points and report the number of points missing by each team to complete the points. If they still do not realize that they need to work together to collect the points, try to give them some further information.
Step 4: After the first 5 rounds, stop the activity and ask them to negotiate with each other. Each team must decide what to propose to the other and which player to represent in the deal.
Notice if the teams are in agreement after the deal.
If you find that participants find it difficult to achieve the goal, enable them to negotiate with each other again.

Once a team or both teams have the necessary points, the activity is completed.

Debriefing:
When the activity is complete, form a circle and discuss the participants' impressions of their participation.

- What was your role in the team and to what extent do you feel you contributed?

-Did your process make it difficult or was it easy to create a strategy with your team?

Then connect it to everyday life.

-How does this particular dilemma work in society?

-How are individual and collective benefits linked?

Variations