Introduction to Problem Solving 2007 Destination Imagi Nation

Introduction to Problem Solving © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 1

Can-do Cantilever A cantilevered structure is a structure that is supported at one end by a counterbalance. © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 2

Can-do Cantilever Your Challenge: Design and construct the longest cantilevered structure you can using only popsicle sticks and masking tape. © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 3

The Problem Solving Process Three Components: • Understanding the Challenge • Generating Ideas • Preparing for Action © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 4

Understanding the Challenge In this component you: • Make sure you understand what needs to be solved • Explore what you know about the challenge and form a specific problem statement © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 5

Generating Ideas In this component you: • Generate many, varied and unusual ideas • Identify those with potential © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 6

Guidelines for Generating • • Defer judgment Encourage freewheeling Seek quantity Look for combinations © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 7

Generating Ideas Tool: ABC Brainstorming Generate a list of things that might be sticky © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 8

Generating Ideas It’s not what you say but how you say it that produces the best ideas: In what ways might we… How to… © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 9

Preparing for Action In this component you: • Identify, organize, and refine promising possibilities • Identify and select promising solutions • Formulate a plan for carrying out the solution © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 10

Guidelines for Focusing • • Use affirmative judgment Be deliberate Consider novelty Stay on course © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 11

Towering Tribute • Build a tower as tall as possible out of newspaper and tape • The tower: – Must include at least one unique feature that makes it unlike any other tower – Must be dedicated to someone or something © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 12

Putting it all together: • Problem-solving model developed by Center for Creative Learning and used with permission • Problem solving process has three components: – Understanding the Challenge – Generating Ideas – Preparing for Action © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 13

Using a Problem Solving Process Can… • Make the procedure more purposeful and productive • Result in the best possible solution • Help with project management • Help with time management • Improve teamwork © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 14

Questions? © 2007 Destination Imagi. Nation, Inc. 15