Brainstorming is a simple and effective activity that requires little equipment and can, if executed properly, energize a group. It can also, however, fall flat if no one contributes, so always make it relevant to the group (generic brainstorms barely ever work) and have your own words ready in case it fails to spark interest.

It can be used in a variety of contexts but one obvious use in information literacy is to generate keywords. Always use the words that you gather – enter them into a database as part of a demonstration perhaps – as this will make the exercise immediately relevant. This will be enhanced if the topic is something that your learners need to research. If the latter is the case and the group has access to a VLE or social networking site, then post the results of the brainstorm there. Some useful work can come out of these exercises but it is rarely captured other than at the time.

Brainstorms can be used at the start of a session to find out about a group's knowledge, experience and attitude. For example, have a quick brainstorm on the sources of information learners would use for a specific project and why. This helps you gauge their knowledge and also allows you to tailor your content. Brainstorms can also be provocative. For example, ask learners what they think of libraries – this could be good or bad. You can then challenge their expectations.

If the group is very quiet, and you suspect that they will not call out words, you might want to split them into smaller groups to work on their keywords or ideas and then pool the group efforts. Try not to pick on individuals unless they are keen to contribute. Encourage contributions by making the brainstorm relevant and interesting, but if all fails then ask for contributions from ‘all those in blue’ or ‘people on the second row’ rather than individuals.

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You can brainstorm using: