Problem Solving and Creativity Report
Problem Solving and Creativity Report
The "Torrance Tests of Creativity Thinking" helped shatter the theory that IQ tests alone were sufficient to gauge real
intelligence.
- The TTCT focuses on assessing creative thinking skills, which are essential components of intelligence often
overlooked by traditional IQ tests.
- These tests evaluate creativity through various tasks that measure divergent thinking, problem-solving
abilities, and originality. Participants might be asked to come up with multiple uses for a common object,
complete partial drawings, or generate novel ideas based on a given prompt. The TTCT highlights that
creativity is a vital aspect of intelligence, encompassing the ability to think outside the box, approach
problems in innovative ways, and adapt to new situations.
- By emphasizing the importance of creativity alongside cognitive skills, the TTCT broadened the
understanding of intelligence, demonstrating that it is a multifaceted construct that cannot be fully captured by
IQ tests alone. This shift in perspective has influenced educational practices, encouraging a more holistic
approach to assessing and nurturing a wide range of intellectual abilities.
Activity
The following, based on Van Gundy (1988’s) description, is a very brief skeleton of a very rich process, showing it in
its full ‘6 x 2’ stages form:
Divergent techniques in creative problem solving are methods used to generate a wide range of ideas or solutions to a
given problem. These techniques encourage thinking "outside the box" and exploring multiple possibilities without
immediate judgment or evaluation.
- the process of creating multiple, unique ideas or solutions to a problem that you are trying to solve.
Convergent techniques in creative problem solving are methods used to evaluate, refine, and select the best ideas
generated during the divergent phase. These techniques focus on narrowing down options to find the most viable and
effective solutions.
- focuses on reaching one well-defined solution to a problem. This type of thinking is best suited for tasks that
involve logic as opposed to creativity, such as answering multiple-choice tests or solving a problem where
you know there are no other possible solutions.
Convergent thinking is the process of finding concrete and familiar solutions to problems. Divergent thinking is the
creative process of generating original ideas and new possibilities.
Convergent thinking increases performance speed. It helps to narrow problems down into smaller, more manageable
chunks. Efficiency is especially important when you’re under pressure and deadlines are involved; it can prevent
decision overload.
Divergent thinking increases flexibility in how you approach problems. Looking at a problem from many angles gets
your mind working in full gear. It helps you consider all possible options (even if they seem completely unlikely).
Divergence also encourages flexibility and out-of-the-box thinking. And because the thought process is less limited, it
produces stronger creative concepts than convergent thinking would on its own.
In the Acceptance Finding stage of Creative Problem Solving, the focus shifts to developing a comprehensive plan of
action to implement the chosen solution. This stage ensures that the solution is adopted effectively, and all necessary
steps are taken to ensure its success. By developing a comprehensive action plan, you ensure that the chosen solution
is implemented effectively and has the best chance of success. This structured approach helps manage the process,
allocate resources efficiently, and address any challenges that arise along the way.
In Van Gundy's (1988) description of creative problem-solving, he outlines a process often referred to as the "6 x 2"
model. This framework is designed to help individuals or teams approach problem-solving in a structured yet creative
way. The "6 x 2" represents a six-stage process that cycles through two main phases: Divergent Thinking (idea
generation) and Convergent Thinking (idea evaluation and selection).
The 6 x 2 Process:
1. Problem Finding (Divergent)
This stage is about defining and understanding the problem. The goal is to identify and articulate the real problem or
challenge, often by asking questions and exploring the issue from multiple angles.
The aim is to avoid jumping to solutions prematurely. Instead, the focus is on clarifying the problem itself. Techniques
like "Five Whys" or root cause analysis might be used here.
2. Idea Finding (Divergent)
Once the problem is clearly defined, the next step is to generate a wide range of ideas and potential solutions. This is a
brainstorming or idea generation phase where quantity is prioritized over quality.
Divergent thinking techniques like brainstorming, mind mapping, or freewriting encourage free-flowing ideas without
judgment, leading to creative possibilities.
3. Solution Finding (Convergent)
After generating ideas, it's time to evaluate the ideas and narrow down the list. This stage involves filtering,
prioritizing, and sifting through the options.
Tools like decision matrices, SWOT analysis, or Pareto analysis might be used to assess the practicality, feasibility,
and relevance of each solution.
4. Acceptance Finding (Convergent)
This stage focuses on ensuring that the selected solution is accepted by all stakeholders involved.
This might involve addressing concerns, gaining consensus, or working through potential resistance. In a group
setting, techniques like multi-voting or negotiation could be used to reach a decision.
5. Action Finding (Convergent)
In this stage, you develop a clear action plan to implement the chosen solution. This includes identifying the necessary
steps, resources, timeline, and responsibilities.
Project planning tools and Gantt charts are examples of methods used to create a structured plan for execution.
6. Evaluation Finding (Convergent)
After the solution is implemented, it's important to evaluate its effectiveness. This involves measuring the outcomes
and analyzing if the problem was solved and to what degree the solution worked.
Continuous feedback, post-mortem analysis, and evaluation metrics are used to ensure that the solution is achieving
the desired results.