© 2007 Destination ImagiNation, Inc. 1 Introduction to Problem Solving

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

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

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

© 2007 Destination ImagiNation, Inc. 5 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 ImagiNation, Inc. 6 Generating Ideas In this component you: Generate many, varied and unusual ideas Identify those with potential

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

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

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

© 2007 Destination ImagiNation, Inc. 10 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 ImagiNation, Inc. 11 Guidelines for Focusing Use affirmative judgment Be deliberate Consider novelty Stay on course

© 2007 Destination ImagiNation, Inc. 12 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 ImagiNation, Inc. 13 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 ImagiNation, Inc. 14 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 ImagiNation, Inc. 15 Questions?