CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING TOOLS Creative problem solving tools work well to help foster creative thinking in the classroom, however there are some rules that must be used to get the most out of the tools. 1. Discuss the behavior that is expected during a session. This is especially important with small children because it will set the tone for the session. The students or the group must also have the concepts explained before starting with any tools. 2. Do a small warm-up. It can be a short brainteaser. 3. Discuss the guidelines for the tool that you are about to use. As divergent tools are used to generate ideas, and convergent tools are used to choose the best solution, there are different rules used for each step. The rules listed on this page are for elementary students.
DIVERGENT TOOLS Divergent tools help generate lots of ideas and options. 1. Don't judge 2. Come up with lots and lots of ideas 3. Make connections 4. Think of original ideas
Below is a video that illustrates the rules of divergent thinking with a focus on brainstorming. The rules apply to all divergent tools.
CONVERGENT TOOLS Convergent tools help to evaluate and narrow down the ideas to the best option. 1. Positive judgment 2. Keep those original ideas 3. Stay focused 4. Remember the your goal