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Challenging Stereotypes

Challenging Stereotypes

Seeing beyond labels
A playful and reflective storytelling tool that helps participants recognise and challenge stereotypes and other preconceived ideas, connect through personal stories, and strengthen empathy and belonging in groups. Ideal for schools or community settings to build understanding and personal resilience.

What is
Challenging Stereotypes
about ?

What is
it
about ?
What is this Method about ?

This tool invites participants to explore and reflect on the power of storytelling in shaping how we see others – and ourselves. Through playful and reflective activities, participants identify the stereotypes they carry, discover the personal stories hidden behind generalisations, and practice ways of relating beyond labels. Rooted in empathy and creative expression, the method encourages participants to rehumanise others by uncovering and sharing stories that foster connection and inclusion.

When and why is this Method used ?

This tool is especially effective in intercultural, intergenerational, or mixed-group settings where participants may carry unconscious assumptions about each other. It works well in schools, community spaces, and informal learning environments. It can be used at the beginning of a longer programme to create trust, or as a standalone activity to promote self-awareness and inclusion. By recognising and challenging stereotypes through story-based reflection, participants build personal resilience, empathy, and a deeper sense of community; and open for co-creation and innovation.

Where does this Method come from ?

This method was originally developed as part of a project closely linked to STSEM and published in the booklet Teaching with Empathy: How Teachers Can Support Displaced Children. Methodology for Conducting Extracurricular Activities. The manual was created to support teachers, school psychologists, and educators in fostering emotional safety and inclusion.

Additional Questions about the Method
Will this bring up a lot of conflicts and problems?
The method as described is non-confrontational so the risk is low.
Can I use Challenging Stereotypes even in groups with widely different values?
Yes. It can be particularly valuable there - but don’t expect too much of the participants. Even small steps count.
How does Challenging Stereotypes work with collective learning?
Challenging Stereotypes opens new opportunities for group participants to learn from each other, as well as from their own experience.

Audience

Audience

Is participant experience relevant for Challenging Stereotypes ?

It's okay if participants haven't seen the inside of a classroom in years

Physical Trust Needed

[content_physical_trust]

Mental Trust Needed

[content_mental_trust]

Audience description for Challenging Stereotypes

Any group where participants have differing cultural backgrounds, and are expected to collaborate and support each other.

Requirements

Requirements

Recommend a co-facilitator in groups with wide divergence of values.

Experience level of the facilitator
Taken part AND professional facilitator
How Stationary
Stationary necessary, at least in parts
Location requirements

Not specifically

Run Through

Run Through
Prep Work (excluding materials)

Step 1. Several pictures of cats (can be on screen)
Step 2. Picture of Cat and Dog curled up together (can be on screen)
Step 3. Prepare everyday stereotype statements to share with the group – create them so you think they make sense for the group.
Step 4. Prepare example prompt relevant for your group. Some examples:

  • a politician
  • a young man in a hoodie
  • a child
  • an elderly person
  • a person from another place in the world
  • someone from your hometown who you wouldn’t usually talk to

Step 5. Consider what images, if any, to show.

Pre Exercise

Material for

Material
MaterialMaterial : Drawing Paper, Drawing/Painting Supplies
Additional Material Description

Find more free pictures of Cats and Cat and Dog at Pixabay.com

Additional Resources Description
Create materials with tender, love and care in : 2 hours
Create materials quick and dirty in : 30 min

Impact

Impact
Hidden Curriculum This activity invites participants to reflect on how quickly and unconsciously we form assumptions about others – and about ourselves. It has been used effectively with migrant students, particularly those displaced by conflict. However, it is equally relevant in any context where stereotyping or prejudice may arise – whether in schools, workplaces, or community settings. The aim is not to shame or judge, but to gently raise awareness about the ways we categorise people, often without realising it. The process can be eye-opening, sometimes uncomfortable, but ultimately offers a space for growth and dialogue. It also opens space for deeper collaboration and co-creation.
author(s)

author(s)

OF THIS method
Annika Piirimets
Challenging Stereotypes
funding

funding

of this method
Swedish Institute
Swedish Institute
Co-funded by the <strong>Swdish Institute</strong>. Find more information about the program and its goals here: <a href="https://si.se/en/">https://si.se/en/</a> Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the Swedish Institute. It can not be held responsible for them.


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