The betting ring
What is a betting ring?
An opportunity to ask a question which is answered by everyone in the group. A question is asked. A response is recorded from each participant. A prize is awarded to the person with the most correct answer.
How to use a betting ring
- Select a question on a subject that is familiar to the participants but to which they are unlikely to know the correct answer
- Choose a question for which there is a measurable answer: weight, volume, area, number etc
- Don’t guess the answer - if you can’t work out the correct answer, don’t ask that question
- Make sure everyone understands the question and give them time to do a rule of thumb calculation
- Ask each participant in turn to give his answer and record it where everyone can see. If possible, make a rule that no two people can give the same answer
- Reveal the correct answer
- Award a prize for nearest correct answer - something small and consumable, for example sweets, that anybody would be pleased to receive
- Explain the reason for the answer
When to use a betting ring
- At a time in the day when teaching is difficult, for example after lunch or when people are hot and tired
- As a finale to a topic
- To illustrate the importance of a subject
Why use a betting ring
- To introduce excitement and competition
- To encourage the audience to think
- To get individual participation
Source: Adapted from the International Course on Training of Trainers in Labour-Based Road Construction and Maintenance, compiled by David J Mason