Force Field Analysis

Force Field Analysis

Purpose: 

·         Helps students develop their ability to think about the reasoning behind decisions as they consider the forces that either drive or block their goal. 

·         Gets students to think together about all the facets of their decision as they consider the “driving forces” that strengthen their cause, and the “restraining forces” that reduce their chance of success.

·         Transforms the pros and the cons of ambivalence to a visual display of rational decision-making factors.

 Process:

1.)            Clue the class in

·         Introduce the tool

·         Let kids know why you are doing it and how it will benefit the class

·         Explain driving forces & restraining forces

·         Write the purpose, desired outcomes, and process on a flip chart.

2.)           Prepare a Force Field Chart

·         Write the topic at the top of the chart and underline it.

·         Draw a line down the center of the chart.

·         Write “Driving Forces” on the left side under the topic heading and “Restraining Forces” on the right side.

3.)           Identify Driving and Restraining Forces

·         Ask student to identify driving or restraining forces that affect the topic or decision.

·         Record all forces on the correct side of the chart.

4.)           Review the listed forces

·         As you review the forces listed by students, check for understanding.

·         Have the students brainstorm ideas for strengthening the driving forces and for reducing the restraining forces.

5.)           Develop a Plan

·         Use the information, develop a plan for next steps

 

Future Force; A Teacher’s Handbook For Using TQM in the Classroom,

Elaine McClanahan & Carolyn Wicks