The Creative Problem Solving Process

The Creative Problem Solving (CPS) Process comes in many forms. Some who use it favor a

four-step process, some up to seven steps. I have found workable in my life a five-step

process that can be applied to any situation, in any circumstance. It can be used by an

individual as well as by a group, with equally satisfying results. The difference between CPS

and critical thinking is the divergent phase, when ALL possibilities are considered before a

decision is made in preparation for action. Often, if you allow yourself the freedom to "think

outside of the box," you will not settle for the first "right" answer, you will have much more fun,

and your results will be more unusual, expressive, and personal.

Step One: Identify the Question, Problem or Challenge clearly; make sure you have

correctly understood the task at hand!

Step Two: Begin to search for numerous possible solutions to the Question. This is the

divergent phase, when you are exploring and reaching, stretching the envelope.

.Acknowledge that there are numerous "right" answers

.Brainstorm for ALL possible solutions

.Generate solutions with speed and spontaneity

.Value quantity over quality

.Do not judge ideas at this point

.Think outside of the box!

.After brainstorming, look at the breadth of ideas:

.Evaluate for Fluency: ability to generate many ideas

.Evaluate for Flexibility: ability to have ideas that take many directions

.Evaluate for O[iQinality: clever or novel ideas that allow students individual

investment in the process

.Evaluate for Elaboration: expansion, development and embellishment of

ideas, providing detail

Step Three: Let Go! Consider this the incubation period. Put aside the problem and do

something else. "Chance favors the prepared mind," says Pasteur. Prepare for

an "Aha!"

Step Four: OK, perhaps you did not have an "Aha!" experience. Now, be the judge!

Evaluate your solutions by their appropriateness, feasibility, cost, timeliness, etc.

Narrow the focus to the one right answer for this moment in time. This is the

convergent phase, when you are selecting from the wide assortment of answers

that are available to you.

Step Five: Champion your chosen solution! Create it! Talk about it! Share it! Be able to

defend why it was your choice for this problem, in this moment.

Deborah Snider

January,2001