The 3Ls of a Structured Debriefing Activity

The 3Ls of a structured debriefing activity:

• Liked – things you appreciated
• Learned – things you have learned
• Lacked – things you would have done better

This skeleton structure can take various forms catering to varied occasions and audiences. Download The 3Ls of a Structured Debriefing Activity Template attached in the tool panel and apply them to your facilitated session.

Try out one of the variations described below!

Variation 1: Forming Questions

• Occasion: Straightforward, short-time frame
• Description: Form questions according to the 3Ls structure:
  • What things did you like during the event?
  • What have you learned from the event?
  • What would you have done better?

Variation 2: Fill out the Canvas

• Occasion: Virtual, interactive, formal and informal
• Description:
  • STEP 1: Share a link to a collaborative canvas with the group, which has 3 columns with the titles—Liked, Learned, Lacked
  • STEP 2: Ask the participants to post their ideas in each category in 5 minutes
  • STEP 3: Facilitate discussions regarding each cluster of posts
  • STEP 4: Compile important takeaways in a file
  • * This activity could also take place in-person using post-it notes and flip chart paper on a wall

Variation 3: Dice

• Occasion: Informal, intriguing
• Description:
  • STEP 1: Ask group members to roll a dice
  • STEP 2: Identify the number shown on the dice and use the table below to reflect about the corresponding category
    • 1, 4 = Liked
    • 2, 5 = Learned
    • 3, 6 = Lacked
  • STEP 3: Discuss and compile important takeaways in a file