Hand gestures are an efficient way to provide constant, non-interruptive feedback to the facilitator, speaker, or other group members.
Please see ![[WWW]](http://wikispot.org/wiki/eggheadbeta/img/sycamore-www.png){kind=small}
http://nycga.cc/resources/general-assembly-guide/ for the source of the descriptions below (you have to look at the pdf, last page):
GA Gestures:
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Agree (Wiggle Fingers in the Air, Applause in American Sign Language) – This means I like this, or I feel good. It also can mean ‘I agree’.
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Unsure (Hands Out Flat) – This means I am unsure, on the fence or don’t know.
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Disagree (Wiggle Fingers, Hands Down) – This means I don’t like this, I don’t feel good or ‘I disagree’.
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Point of Process (Form a Diamond with Hands/Fingers, Palms Out) – This means the GA process has been derailed, someone is off topic, we need to get back on track.
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Do not yell out 'Point of Process', simply use the gesture silently to let the facilitators know that the GA is off topic.
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Point of Information (One Finger in the Air) – This means I have pertinent information about what is currently being discussed. It is not a question or a concern, it is merely information.
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Do not yell out 'Point of Information', simply raise your finger and ensure a member from the facilitation teams calls on you.
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Wrap it Up (Pointer Fingers Orbiting Each Other) – This means that we hear you, we understand but you’re talking a lot, please be concise and to the point.
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Block (Arms Crossed in an ‘X’) – This means that you have a severe ethical or safety issue with what is being discussed. If it passes, I will leave the movement and abandon our cause. This is very serious and should be used sparingly!
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Block does not mean 'I disagree' (See Disagree Above).
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An individual presenting a block will be asked to explain why in an attempt to have the block resolved and rescinded.
Unused Gestures:
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Direct Response (Pointer Fingers of Both Hands, motioning back and forth between you and the Speaker) – This gesture was used to indicate that you have important information regarding the discussion topic. The NYC General Assembly no longer uses this gesture due to its misuse and abuse.
Supplementary Gestures:
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Volume Up (Pointer Finger, Pointing Up Repeatedly) – This is used to show the speaker that they need to be louder.
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Temperature Check (AKA 'Vibes Check') – This is used as a gage to show the facilitation team how the members of the GA are feeling. On occasion voices have hijacked the general assembly process and made others feel oppressed. A temperature check is a way to determine if the GA is in need of a short break. The 'agree, unsure, disagree' gestures are used to show an individuals current emotional state. If the response for the members of the GA is mixed, a short break will be issued.
