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Why this artefact was Included After my mid-year self-reflection I realised that I need to find daily habits to help me with building self-confidence in my abilities. This artifacts gave my ideas that i could easily implement in my busy student schedule. 7 Daily Rituals to Improve Your Self-Esteem: Self-esteem plays a crucial role in our lives. Kim, J. (2024). 7 Daily Rituals to Improve Your Self-Esteem | Psychology Today . [online] www.psychologytoday.com . Available at: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/the-angry-therapist/202403/7-daily-rituals-to-improve-your-self-esteem [Accessed 7 Nov. 2024]. Tips to increase self-esteem: Morning Gratitude:  Start the day by listing five things to be grateful for. This shifts focus to positive aspects of life and fosters appreciation. Mindful Meditation:  Dedicate a few minutes daily to mindfulness meditation. Find a quiet place, close the eyes, and concentrate on the breath. This helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and enhance self-awareness. Daily Affirmations:  Write positive affirmations that resonate. Repeat them each morning to reinforce positive beliefs about oneself and capabilities. Journaling:  Spend time journaling thoughts and feelings daily. This reflection helps in understanding experiences, gaining clarity, and processing emotions, aiding in self-discovery and growth. Physical Exercise:  Engage in enjoyable physical activities like walking, yoga, or working out. Exercise boosts mood and well-being by releasing endorphins. Self-Care Rituals:  Incorporate self-care into the routine, like taking relaxing baths, practicing skincare, or indulging in hobbies. These rituals prioritize self-care and nurture the relationship with oneself. Reflection Time:  Set aside time each evening to reflect on the day. Consider what went well, the challenges faced, and the lessons learned. This practice enhances self-awareness and personal growth. Short Reflection On Its Value This article gives me easy to implement steps to develop my confidence in my abilities.

Why this artefact was Included I realised that being able to respond flexibly is about emotional control and being a flexible thinker. This article helped me understand what being a flexible thinker is about. Kallick, B. and Costa, A. (2019). Thinking Flexibly . [online] The Institute for Habits of Mind. Available at: https://www.habitsofmindinstitute.org/thinking-flexibly/ [Accessed 7 Nov. 2024]. Flexible thinking is essential for responding effectively to various situations. It involves being open to new information and different perspectives, allowing us to adapt our approach based on the context. Flexible thinkers can shift their mindset, consider multiple outcomes, and employ a variety of problem-solving strategies. This adaptability enables them to handle complex problems and find effective solutions. Moreover, flexible thinkers embrace creativity, humor, and novelty. They are adept at seeing the bigger picture while also paying attention to details. This balance helps them navigate challenges with a clear and comprehensive view. Additionally, their ability to understand and appreciate different cultural viewpoints enhances their interactions with others, fostering better collaboration and understanding. Another key aspect of flexible thinking is intuition and the ability to tolerate ambiguity. Flexible thinkers trust their subconscious to work on problems creatively and productively, even when immediate solutions are not apparent. This confidence allows them to remain calm and composed, knowing they have the tools to handle whatever comes their way. By practicing flexible thinking, we can rewire our brains, enhancing our capacity to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world. Short Reflection On Its Value I've learned that flexible thinking involves being open to new information and perspectives, and adapting our approach to problems accordingly. Flexible thinkers can shift their perspectives, consider multiple outcomes, and use a variety of problem-solving strategies. They embrace novelty, humor, and creativity. They can see the bigger picture while also paying attention to details and understanding different cultural viewpoints. Flexibility in thinking means being intuitive, tolerating ambiguity, and knowing when to change perceptual positions to better understand and respond to situations. This adaptability helps them navigate complex problems and find effective solutions.

Why this artefact was Included The writer includes strategies that helped them develop the responding flexibly competency. Reading about what helped them was insightful for my own competency development journey. Response Flexibility – Choosing How We Respond To Challenges Written by: Lily Breuning Ellis, Executive Contributor Breuning Ellis, L. (2023). Response Flexibility – Choosing How We Respond To Challenges . [online] Brainz Magazine. Available at: https://www.brainzmagazine.com/post/response-flexibility-choosing-how-we-respond-to-challenges [Accessed 6 Nov. 2024]. She made significant decisions and changes to live her life by choice, not by reacting to her surroundings. She became focused on building her ability to choose her responses, being intentional to fill her life with positive emotions and approaches. Now, she's much better at responding flexibly to challenges rather than reacting impulsively. Become breath intelligent: Stress changes how we breathe; prolonged stress keeps our body in a constant state of alertness, leading to fast and shallow breaths. This increases cortisol and adrenaline, rewiring our brains and affecting our behavior, resulting in a reactive way of living. To manage life's unpredictability, we must become aware of our breathing and adjust it to create a sense of calm. "Breath intelligence" is about using our breath to control our nervous system and create space to choose our responses, acting as a handbrake when life's intensity gets overwhelming. Beautiful Breathing: Optimal breathing is free and supports the body efficiently. It involves deep inhales and full expansion of the lungs, speeding up the heart rate. On exhale, the breath is released, relaxing the body and slowing the heart rate. This variation in heart rate, known as heart-rate variability (HRV), indicates resilience and longevity. Stressful breathing lacks HRV, leading to a constant state of alertness. When relaxed, breathing is slow, deep, and measured, focusing on the exhale and involving movement around the lower ribs and abdomen rather than the neck and shoulders. This type of breathing reduces stress, activates the rational brain, and helps us respond thoughtfully to life's challenges, promoting a calm and deliberate approach. Daily practice: To improve your heart-rate variability (HRV), practice a technique called Coherent Breath by inhaling slowly for 5 counts and exhaling smoothly for 5 counts for 5 minutes, at least three times a day. This reduces stress levels significantly and has lasting effects. Regular practice helps: Make slow, deep breathing your natural pattern Tone the vagus nerve for quicker relaxation on exhale Lower overall stress throughout the day Breath intelligence is a powerful way to manage anxiety, allowing you to choose your responses and develop the ability to respond flexibly. Short Reflection On Its Value I've realized that living intentionally and choosing my responses rather than reacting makes a big difference. By focusing on positive emotions and approaches, I can handle challenges more thoughtfully. I've also learned that stress affects our breathing, making it shallow and keeping us in a constant state of alertness. By becoming "breath intelligent," I can use my breath to calm my nervous system and choose my responses.

Why this artefact was Included I have a shy and introverted personality in group settings, so I decided to learn about hot personality plays into leading. Wedgwood, J. (2018). Personality & Leadership: Approaches To Leadership . [online] Thehappinessindex.com . Available at: https://thehappinessindex.com/blog/personality-leadership-approaches/ [Accessed 6 Nov. 2024]. The five main personality traits which influence leadership are Openness to Experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism Openness to Experience: Being open to new experiences can significantly impact leadership behaviors by promoting innovative thinking for the team’s benefit. Leaders who excel in this trait are more inclined to think creatively, adapt quickly, and embrace change. They are willing to question the norm, foster discussions, and welcome diverse ideas. This mindset is well-suited to modern workplaces that value collaboration, integration, and creative problem-solving. Conscientiousness: Leaders who are conscientious tend to exhibit ethical behavior due to their heightened sense of moral duty. This trait also affects whether they lean towards task-oriented or people-oriented approaches. Task-focused leaders prioritize completing tasks over engaging in people-oriented activities. Conscientious leaders are generally more task-oriented, excelling in clear communication of goals, effective delegation, and achieving results. Extraversion: Extraverted leadership behaviors are essential for driving change within organizations. Extraversion also affects how people-oriented a leader is. Since extraverts gain energy from social interactions, they are more likely to engage in people-oriented behaviors, such as acknowledging team members and being aware of their development needs. This leadership style is effective in creating a culture where individuals feel appreciated for their contributions. Empathetic leadership can also be part of this approach. Agreeableness: Agreeable leaders are less inclined to use an autocratic leadership style, which involves centralizing authority, making unilateral decisions, and dictating work methods. While this approach can be effective when clear direction is needed, it can hinder creativity by reducing employees’ sense of autonomy and empowerment. In contrast, agreeable leaders are generally more compliant and passive. They are less likely to use authority or pressure to influence others, often prioritizing the needs of their team and organization over their own.   Neuroticism: Emotional stability, the opposite of neuroticism, characterizes leaders who are calm under pressure, helping to reassure their team during stressful times. On the other hand, neurotic leaders are highly emotional, passionate, and sometimes irrational. While this can make them less popular with staff, their intense emotions can be channeled into passion, potentially leading to effective results. Short Reflection On Its Value Understanding the dimensions of personality has given me a new perspective on leadership. I've learned that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to leadership. My personality traits, once seen as obstacles, can be harnessed as strengths, allowing me to adapt and grow as a leader in various situations. This makes me more confident in my ability to lead, knowing that I can use my unique personality to lead others.

Why this artefact was Included After the group discussion with my friends, I still had some questions about why my leadership style works for some people and not for others. Through YouTube I found a clip from a talk by Simon Sinek that i found helpful in understanding this and the solution to my problem. Sinek, S. (2024). The Key to Effective Leadership . YouTube . Available at: https://youtu.be/C2Tko2rKwVs [Accessed 6 Nov. 2024]. People are open to your leadership at different times. You cannot force someone to accept your leadership/ leadership style immediately. You need to take into consideration that they have experiences that inform how they respond to your leadership. These experiences may have been bad which make them approach you with their guard up. So we have to be careful of being overbearing just because we are excited and studying leadership. All you must focus on is doing the right thing and being consistent. You cannot demonstrate good leadership one or twice you have got to do it all the time. Leadership is doing the boring mundane easy tasks daily. For example, taking into account how you actions make people feel. This can be not having your phone out in important meetings, settings, etc. People need to feel important and valued when they are around you. Make eye contact, turn your body to face them, take interest in their well-being. You then create an environment where people feel seen, heard, valued and eventually be willing to be lead to achieve the objectives that you are set to achieve. Short Reflection On Its Value This video was very helpful in helping me realise the importance that consistency plays in leading other people. I learned that people are open to my leadership at different times, influenced by their past experiences. I can't force them to accept my style immediately. I need to avoid being overbearing and focus on consistently doing the right thing. By creating an environment where people feel seen, heard, and valued, they will be more willing to follow my lead and help achieve our objectives.

Ruth: What does leading mean to you? Should leaders care about who they are leading as compared to reaching the objective by whatever means, why or why not? Friend 1: What does leading mean to you? Leading, to me, is about guiding and inspiring others to work towards a common goal. It’s not just about telling people what to do but helping them grow and feel important. A good leader listens and adjusts, making sure everyone feels like they matter. Should leaders care about who they are leading as compared to reaching the objective by whatever means, why or why not? Yes, leaders should care about their team. If a leader only focuses on goals and forgets about the people, it can lead to burnout and a bad work environment. When leaders care about their team, people feel valued and are more likely to stay motivated and loyal, which helps in achieving long-term success. Happy and appreciated team members work better together. Friend 2: What does leading mean to you? Leading means helping others reach their best while working towards shared goals. It’s about being honest and understanding, making choices that balance the group's needs with the job's requirements. A true leader serves the team and steers them in the right direction. Should leaders care about who they are leading as compared to reaching the objective by whatever means, why or why not? Absolutely, leaders should care about their people. Chasing goals at any cost might work short-term but can harm relationships and trust. A leader who invests in their team creates a positive and productive atmosphere. By showing real care for the team, leaders can achieve goals more effectively because a happy team is a hardworking team. Ruth: I agree, but sometimes I feel like I care too much about the people I am leading, to the point where I almost lose sight of the main objectives. So how do I care without deterring the team from meeting its objectives? Friend 1: I get what you’re saying. It’s tough to balance being supportive and getting things done. Here’s what helps me: Clear Goals:  Make sure everyone knows what you’re all working towards. It keeps everyone focused. Check-ins:  Regularly touch base with your team to see how they’re doing and if they’re on track. Accountability:  Support your team but also make sure they’re responsible for their tasks. Friend 2: I agree. It’s important to find that middle ground. Here’s my take: Communication:  Keep talking with your team. Let them know they can come to you with any issues, and you’ll figure it out together. Balance Feedback:  Give praise for their efforts but also offer constructive feedback to keep them aligned with the goals.

Before I started creative thinking Competency development: Midyear Assessment: Semester 1 Reflection: Developing creativity has been quite the challenge for me. I struggled to find a resource that I felt was relevant enough to developing my creativity. I have worked on completing a program that I found on Coursera called Creative Thinking: Techniques and Tools for Success by Imperial College London. But I am still struggling with developing this competency. I need to look into more ways to learn creativity and incorporate it into the assignments in semester 2. I also bit off more than I can chew by trying to do 5 competencies so my lack of success can be attributed to that. But, I have not given up yet, I plan to continue the six week Coursera short course that I found in semester 2 and hope that I'll see improvement.

Why this artefact was Included Developing the competency of creative thinking was not a straight forward or clear path for me. So I decided to complete a short course to form a foundation for my understanding of creative thinking from which I can identify areas to develop or learn more about to become a competent creative thinker. WEEK 1: Introduction to the Principles of Creativity Mother and father of innovation: This topic was about understanding the phrase "Necessity is the Mother of Invention” and therefore that the father of invention is opportunity which presents the need for an invention. When there is a problem, creative ideas are needed to solve them.  This course is about creativity, whether you have a problem, requirement, or issue that you need to tackle, or some wonderful opportunity and you want lots of creative ideas. We will be exploring the fundamentals of creativity and the series of creativity tools. Enabling you to build a toolbox of skills that you can roll out whenever there's a need or opportunity to tackle. By understanding the fundamentals of creativity, one is able to bring together a toolbox of skills and be more creative and effective in both one’s work, personal or everyday life. Discussion Prompt: What is Creativity to You? Creativity is not bound by a single definition. We can each express our own meaning of creativity as we describe what we experience when new ideas are formed. In the discussion prompt below, we invite you to share your definition of creativity . Discussion Prompt: Definitions of Creativity Creativity can be found in your simple daily tasks through to ground-breaking scientific discoveries. There have been many definitions of creativity in literature and academia to define sudden bursts of brilliance. Here is a list of well-respected definitions: "Creativity is the process of change, of development, of evolution, in the organisation of subjective life (Ghiselin,1952)" "Creativity is the forming of associative elements into new combinations which either meet requirements or are in some way useful (Mednick, 1962)" "Creativity denotes a person’s capacity to produce new or original ideas, insights, inventions, or artistic products, which are accepted by experts as being of scientific, aesthetic, social or technical value (Vernon, 1989)" "Creativity is imagination with responsibility (Sae Ra Kung, 2009)" The study of creativity reveals patterns behind a creative burst. These patterns become the various tools we can learn to inspire our innate ability. From the list above, which is your favourite definition of creativity and why? Levels of Creativity 1.      Brilliance 2.      Personal creativity 3.      Paradigm/Domain creativity 4.      Forced/ Industrial creativity Creativity is the ability to imagine or invent something new of value. The value may be personal societal, financial or some combination of these. Creativity is not the ability to create something out of nothing, but the ability to generate new ideas by combining, changing and reapplying existing ideas. Some creative ideas are astonishing an brilliant while other are simple and practical that no one seems to have thought of yet. Usually, people link the term creativity only with transformational or major breakthrough ideas. However, creativity exists on at least two levels; a lower and a higher level, with each level representing a different type of creative problem solving. For example Big c vs little c or Eminent vs everyday creativity. Lower level creativity is often referred to as  small "c"  creativity, whereas the higher level is referred to as  big "C"  creativity. These levels account for modest, everyday changes, through to grand paradigm-shifts. Creativity can also be categorized as  P&H  which refers to  Psychological creativity  or  Historical creativity.  These levels account for an idea that has occurred to an individual for the first time, versus the first time an idea has ever occurred in the history of the human race. Discussion Prompt: Small "c" creativity Small "c"  creativity describes the small ideas that add to our everyday lives. This can include cooking dinner or rearranging your cupboards, enhanced in some manner. They are not things that will make you rich or famous, but they are every day, small accomplishments, which enrich and enhance our lives.  Therefore, creativity is not just found in an engaging picture hanging on the wall, it can be found in actions and objects. When you woke up this morning to get ready for your day, you used many objects that embody creativity, which in turn made your day a little easier. Tell us about an  example of creativity that you encounter in your daily life and explain why it embodies creativity for you. Discussion Prompt: Big "C" Creativity Big "C"  creativity goes beyond the everyday problem solving, where humankind has made giant leaps in, for example, literature and academia where evidence of grand creativity can be found. These milestones can be embodied or represented by objects, be it the spaceship that took the first person to the moon, or a painting that provoked a new movement of thoughts and techniques. In the Discussion Prompt below, tell us about an example of grand creativity  that you have been inspired by and explain its significance in terms of scientific, aesthetic, social or technical values. Creative Environments In order for people to come up with novel ideas there needs to be a limited amount of stress that they experience.  A stress response can, through the release of endorphins, prevent people from being able to think about new ideas. So we need to create a low stress environment, to encourage creative thinking. Physical and mental environments need to be considered. This can be achieved by protecting participants from the consequences of considering new ideas. Reassurance should be given that if a new idea is followed, then the whole group will provide support. And will try and solve any problems that arise. Generating high trust is essential. Discussion prompt: When are you Creative? Have you recognised that there are  particular moments  when you feel more creative than others? Or in contrast, is your creativity suffocated when you are forcing yourself to be or place the expectation upon yourself to be creative on demand? Your mental focus (or lack of focus) and environment   can have a significant influence on your ability to be more creative. Recognizing these factors generates more time in your day for creative thoughts to flow.  List five factors  that you think may influence your creativity. Is it a place, an object or a time of day? Creative Environment - Part 2 Relaxation aids production and realisation of ideas. When you are relaxed your subconscious is highly active. This aides communication between your consciousness and subconscious. And hence the production and realizations of ideas. It has been said that the parents of an invention are "Necessity" and "Opportunity". There is a necessity for intervention and change in almost every sector. In order to tackle these challenges or opportunities, creativity can be used as the tool for transformation. You can tackle more challenges around you when given the right tools to invent the solution. WEEK 2: Creativity Tools In Week 1 of the Creative Thinking: Techniques and Tools for Success course we learned about the different ways that creativity can be defined and expressed. In Week 2 we learned that there are multiple ways that creativity can be unlocked. These different ways are called creativity tools. Creativity tools help us to think creatively in order generate innovative ideas, approaches or solutions. Creative tools Creative tools are a way to increase our ability to come up with creative ideas. Many creativity tools exist examples are boundary shifting, various types of brainstorming, and checklists. Creativity tools can enhance fluency, flexibility, and originality. Fluency is quality of the ideas. Flexibility is how different the ideas are from each other. Originality is how unique the ideas are. Creativity tools do not come up with the idea for you but instead help in the process of generating innovative ideas. These tools can be used at any step of the creative thinking process but are mainly oriented around problem exploration, idea generation, and concept evaluation. Creativity tools mainly assist by ensuring that the problem can be understood in relatively simple terms, and thus is used in the short-term memory of the creative thinking process. It helps to filter out the ideas so that the long-term memory creativity thinking process can be more efficient as well as allow for the short-term memory to continue the generative process and thereby retention of key information. Top 6 Brainstorming Techniques Brainstorming is a type of creativity tool that can generative creative ideas, it is not used to generate fully developed products. There are rules to brainstorming that can make it more productive. The various types of brainstorming which include Flipchart, Post-its, Brainwriting, Alphabet, Grid, and Circle brainstorming.  Brainstorming puts an emphasis on quantity rather than quality of ideas.   There are a series of well-established rules that can help a brainstorming session run smoothly. These include having no more than 10 people present to aid effective group dynamics. Don't criticize or mock-up any ideas, statements, or individuals during the session. Have lots of flip charts, marker pens, pencils, and paper available. Make sure you introduce and state the brief clearly and define a set period of time for the session.  When brainstorming you should be careful about who you choose to participate, try to not include intimidating or sceptic people. Speak with them beforehand to come to a mutual understanding as to whether they should be included or not.   Knowledge Check: Creativity Tools (Week 1 and Week 2 Quiz) Brainstorming Tools Flip Chart  Involves introducing topic and writing all ideas on a white sheet of paper. Then choosing one or two from the compiled list which can be discussed in detail as a group.  The following steps are a reminder of the Flip Chart brainstorming process:   During preparation, ensure that the brief defines the problems and that people, pens and drawing surface are available  Organize the group so that all can see the display medium  Remind participants of the brief  Invite solutions for a period of time (no criticism allowed)  Record ideas  End the session when the frequency of ideas has reduced and energy levels of the group have dropped  Review or reinvigorate for another session  Re-review the material to see if additional ideas are inspired by (for instance, a combination of two of the suggestions)  The disadvantage of the flipchart method is that it is a one-sided approach and there is only one facilitator which writes down the ideas.  Post-it   Post-its were  born for brainstorming. They are a great size to focus and record a single idea. As Post-its can be peeled off a surface and re-applied several times, the ideas can then be rearranged and ordered into groups of similar ideas. The approach encourages a group to come together and generate ideas simultaneously.   Here’s a summary of the steps involved in a typical Post-it session.   Define the brief  Distribute the brief to the participants in advance of the session  Remind the participants of the brief  Allow participants to record ideas for 10-20 min  Review the ideas generated individually or inspire additional ideas   Allow for a further idea-generation session to take place   Review the ideas generated collectively by asking participants to share their favorite ideas   Invite the group to categorize the ideas by rearranging the post its    Alphabet Brainstorming  In an Alphabet brainstorming session, participants are invited to work through the alphabet letter by letter. With one set parameter, the letter itself, it inspires a wide range of ideas. It also encourages the creative use of the letter to form a sentence or phrase, rather than an idea that is one or two words.   The session should always be concluded by reviewing the ideas generated. If necessary, this can be immediately followed by exploring opportunities to combine ideas and seeing whether any of the suggestions provoke additional avenues for exploration.  Here's a summary of the steps involved in a typical alphabet brainstorming session.   Define the brief  Distribute the brief to the participants in advance of the session  Remind the participants of the brief Record suggested ideas start with the letter A  Continue with each letter of the alphabet sequentially  Review the ideas generated collectively by asking participants to comment on their favourite ideas.  E-tivity: Try Alphabet Brainstorming! Now it is your turn to try Alphabet Brainstorming!    Come up with 3 ideas on how to reduce plastic waste. Each of your ideas for this E-tivity in Alphabet Brainstorming, should use the first letter of your name.    Regulate the amount of plastic that can be used in a single product  Reuse plastic where it can be for example plastic containers for margarine can be used as lunch boxes.  Recycle initiative should be made easier for people to follow, for example colour coding the plastic to match the dustbin it needs to go into.   Brainwriting This technique eliminates the disadvantage of multiple people having to speak and share their idea to a single facilitator.    Here's a summary of the steps involved in a typical brainwriting session:   Define and introduce the brief  Arrange the group in a circle  Distribute blank cards to each participant  Ask participants to sketch an idea on a card  Allow participants to silently, pass the card to the next group member in one direction  Ask participants to read the card received and see if it inspires an idea (several idea cards will be being passed around the group)  Collect all cards after 10-20 min  Review the ideas generated collectively by asking participants to share their favourite ideas  Grid Brainstorming The number of columns dictates the number of ideas needed to initiate the process. The number of rows dictates how many times the idea is passed on and developed. By the end of a session, many ideas have been generated and developed by using the inspiration of previously generated ideas.  Here's a summary of the steps involved in a typical grid brainstorming session   Provide group members with a grid   Define and introduce the brief to the group  Ask participants to sketch and complete the top row  When finished, ask participants to place the sheets in the middle for someone else to work on the next row developing the ideas further  Once the grid is complete, review ideas as a group  Discussion Prompt: Application of Grid Brainstorming Well done for getting through the Week 2 course material. Now, it's time for you to put the theory that you have learnt into practice.   This E-tivity consists of three steps and is focused on grid brainstorming. This is a great method for building upon ideas from the first session, gathering inspiration from the group's ideas.  Using the principles of grid brainstorming, we would like you to sketch three ideas to improve  city mobility .   Step 1    Use this  grid  and sketch three initial ideas in the top three boxes of column one, two and three. You can print off the grid and do this by hand, or add your sketches on your computer.   To upload your sketches to the  Discussion:   Add a new post and input your title as "My grid for city mobility -  Topic "  Take a screenshot of your sketches and add it as an image  in your post.  Add some descriptions to further explain your ideas. If you have printed off the grid and completed it by hand, feel free to take a picture and upload it this way.  Knowledge Check: Grid Brainstorming WEEK 3: Thinking Styles   In week three we learned the different thinking styles that can be helpful in creativity. We learned about the principles and applications of the different types of thinking styles, How they can be applied at an individual level, group, professional and personal situations so that this competency can be developed in a way that is beneficial in all areas of life.   The Value of Diversity Diversity is an essential ingredient to creativity. When we experience a new culture we learn new ways of approaching and doing things, diversifying our thinking. So if we are looking to generate more creative ideas to a problem, one way we can achieve this is to diversify our thinking. When we bring a group of people together from various backgrounds, we generate a broader scope of knowledge to extract information from and build ideas upon, injecting diversity into our thinking. The same way that successful people utilise various ways to become successful, there are various ways of thinking to become a creative thinker. Principles of various thinking styles The primary principle of the six hats technique is to enhance the structure of thinking so that decision making and idea evaluation can be greatly improved. The six hats technique provides a framework to help people think clearly and thoroughly by adopting and directing different modes of thinking in one direction at a time. These different modes of thinking are characterized by six different coloured hats. This is to enable more expansive, increased creativity and decision-making.  Divergent thinking concerns the approach to  generate many possible solutions to a challenge or opportunity. Conversely, convergent thinking is a process of consideration of various ideas and their refinement and selection in order to identify which ones to take forward. Design thinking tends to evolve phases of iteration, coming up with ideas, prototyping and testing, revisiting previous considerations, problem-solving and implementation. Through the iterative process of ideation, prototyping and testing, problems can be transformed into opportunities.  Systems thinking involves taking a holistic approach to how different parts interrelate. Analytical thinking involves breaking down a challenge or information into its constituent parts. Critical thinking involves taking into account a wide range of relevant factors in evaluating an issue. The key aspect of critical thinking is exploring the evidence that supports a view or otherwise. Analogical reasoning involves finding relation between two scenarios and seeing if something of value can be inferred as a result. Inductive reasoning involves the use of knowledge and theories to inform a conclusion or a new theory. Conversely, deductive reasoning involves verification of a new or emerging theory by testing it against different scenarios. Aspects of creative thinking can also involve some of the following; brainstorming, using any of the approaches that we've already introduced. Different Thinking Styles in Practice You can use different thinking styles in a group scenario, such as a meeting or on your own. You don't need to explicitly name the approach you're using. You can name the approach as a prompt in a meeting or in teaching. Or if you want a group to follow the principles being invoked. But you can readily apply the principles of a type of thinking, without even naming the methods. Some of the benefits of a range of thinking styles, are that they provide different perspectives to be considered and are suited to different people. They can encourage cooperation and are extremely valuable for decision-making. They are also a suitable complement to the use of an evaluation matrix to ensure that the broad basis for a decision has been consumed. Practice Assignment: Taking an Evidence Based Approach Graded Assignment: Knowledge Check: Thinking Styles Design Thinking Design thinking is a mindset and movement that originated in fields like architecture and has evolved into business and technology, focusing on creative problem-solving and user-centric solutions. It involves processes like discovery, envisioning, questioning, experimentation, feedback, and integration, while considering cognitive functions like memory, emotions, and personality. Design thinking aims to transform current states into desired ones through iterative activities such as ideation, prototyping, and testing. Promoted by figures like Tim Brown from IDEO and Roger Martin from the Rotman School, it has been adopted across various sectors, combining design principles with organizational change knowledge. Key activities include tolerating ambiguity, seeing the big picture, making decisions with clear criteria, teamwork, and diverse communication methods. Overall, it integrates diverse inputs to create meaningful, user-focused outcomes. Peer-graded Assignment: Thinking Styles in Practice The aim of this peer review is to assess whether one of your peers on the course has understood and engaged in the principles of divergent and convergent thinking. By engaging with this process, you can receive feedback from your peers, which can help you confirm your understanding of important principles in creativity. This type of task helps you gain experience in a fundamental facet of creativity and brainstorming: that the quantity of ideas, generated through divergent thinking, can promote quality, through the selection and refinement of a preferred concept during a convergent thinking phase. Divergent Thinking We would like you to come up with ideas to address the following challenge Choose one of: How to be stylish and fashionable without the waste; How to enable medicine compliance for a person who needs to take 5 different medicines per day at different times; How to enable positive gaming experiences without risking addiction or games disengaging due to perceptions of over-gaming. Convergent Thinking Now we would like you consider the diverse ideas you have generated and refine these down to a just one or two for further consideration. For each idea we want you to record the rationale for taking the idea forward or not. How to be stylish and fashionable without the waste Create clothing that can be worn multiple ways. Having more thrifting and donation stores in communities so they are easily accessible for people to patriciate and buy secondhand clothing. Teaching people how to mend clothes, sew or create new outfits from materials of clothing they do not wear anymore. Create an app for people to trade clothing they do not wear but are in good condition. Shop for clothing made from natural materials Rent clothing for big events, for example ballgowns, suits. The best solution is creating clothing that can be worn multiple ways because it is versatile so it can be worn for multiple occasions eliminating the need for new clothing, if it is designed well, it creates incentive because it saves the customer money, and it helps for less clothing t be bought which means less waste. Reasons for Not Choosing the Alternatives: Having more thrifting and donation stores : Infrastructure : Requires significant investment in setting up and maintaining stores. People may still prefer new items over secondhand, limiting the impact. Teaching people how to mend clothes, sew, or create new outfits : Not everyone has the time or interest to learn these skills. It may be challenging to reach a large audience effectively. Create an app for people to trade clothing : Requires a significant enough number of users to be effective. Needs continuous updates and management to ensure smooth operation. Shop for clothing made from natural materials : Natural materials can be more expensive, making it less accessible for everyone. Not all brands offer a wide range of natural material options. Rent clothing for big events : Very narrow solution, only applicable for special occasions, not everyday wear. Renting involves logistics like shipping and returns, which can be inconvenient. Different Thinking Styles in Practice You can use different thinking styles in a group scenario, such as a meeting or on your own. You don't need to explicitly name the approach you're using. You can name the approach as a prompt in a meeting or in teaching. Or if you want a group to follow the principles being invoked. But you can readily apply the principles of a type of thinking, without even naming the methods.  Some of the benefits of a range of thinking styles, are that they provide different perspectives to be considered and are suited to different people. They can encourage cooperation and are extremely valuable for decision-making. They are also a suitable complement to the use of an evaluation matrix to ensure that the broad basis for a decision has been consumed. Discussion Prompt: Share your Creativity Style We'd like you to share your experience in the Discussion Prompt below, reflecting on the creativity tools you've used so far in this course and how they have been used - or could be used - in your professional or daily life. WEEK 4: Morphological Analysis In the previous weeks, you have been experimenting with a range of creativity tools which will allow you to diversify your approach to thinking. To further strengthen your ideation skills, in this week we will introduce Morphological Analysis; an idea-generating tool that approaches problems from lots of different angles whilst provoking many new ways of creative thinking. Introduction to Morphological Analysis Sometimes it’s easy to get stuck in our own ways of thinking when trying to solve a problem. We tend to stick to what we know, and for this reason sometimes we miss out on a novel solution. Utilizing a wide range of creativity tools in idea generation can push you out of your comfort zone and generate ideas that would not normally spring to mind. Principles of Morphological Analysis Morphological analysis can be used to generate additional ideas that would not normally spring to mind. The technique involves considering the function of a generic solution to a problem, and breaking it down into a number of sub-systems or sub-functions. For each subsystem or sub-function, you need to generate a variety of means to fulfill all these. The sub-functions and potential means of fulfilling each of these sub-functions can be arranged in a grid. An overall solution is then formulated by selecting one means for each sub-function, and the combination of these forms the overall solution. A series of ideas or means for fulfilling each of these has been developed in the chart. The grids can be filled in by text or by sketches, depicting the potential means of fulfilling the sub-system requirements. The morphological analysis creativity tool relies upon the user's selection of sub-function options to synthesize an overall solution. The user can explore the design space systematically using their experience to guide the outcome, or experimentally. The use of morphological charts requires consideration of the function of sub-systems rather than less specific details. In using a chart, the selection can be made of one means of fulfilling a subsystem from a given row. An overall solution is then synthesized by pulling all of these elements together. Once you've made a selection, you can then do a sketch or synthesis where you pull the elements you've selected together and create an overall solution. It's in the sketching or synthesis that formulation of the connections or synthesis between the subsystems occurs. By doing a selection and then a sketch or synthesis several times, making different selections each time, it's possible to come up with a wide range of options from a single chart. Early ideas may emerge that might not be practical, but may nevertheless inspire further thought. As well as diverse ideas emerging from the chart by making the selections wheels, driven wheels, bottle gas, gears and chefs, urning wheels, hydraulic ram, and seated towards the front, the conventional form for a forklift truck is possible. Of interest, if a small variation in the selection is made, a substantial difference in the overall outcome is possible as embodied in the telly truck innovation, which gives a significant number of additional functionalities, such as being able to reach over a pallet or unload a flatbed truck from just one side. Knowledge Check: Morphological Analysis Peer-graded Assignment: Application of Morphological Analysis My Submission: Morphological Analysis - Plot Line At this point in the course, you will have seen how MA can be applied as a way to redesign complex mechanical systems. However, the tool isn't limited to this kind of problem. MA can be used in fields from songwriting to business strategy.  Here, we'll be using MA to construct a  movie plot line .  Can be a value in considering alterative ideas.  Value needs to be given to the subsystems, in this case the plot line  Peer-graded Assignment: Plot Line Challenge It's now time to generate your own plot for a movie. Read the instructions below carefully. Download the  Morphological Chart for Fictional Narratives. Make a selection from each row of the chart for your plot line. We recommend spending 15-20 minutes to make a selection and 1 hour to synthesise your ideas. Record your pitch in any one of the following formats you feel appropriate:  (1) a 90 seconds video , or (2) a 90 second audio presentation  (e..g a powerpoint presentation with an audio VoiceOver), or (3) a storyboard  (e.g a series of frames with some text narrative explaining your ideas) Once you finish, upload your file into the response box below. My Submission: WEEK 5: TRIZ -Theory of Inventive Problem Solving In week 5, the course continued to enhance my fluency, flexibility and originality of idea generation by introducing me to another creativity tool called the theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ). It will particularly focused on application of TRIZ and the TRIZ Contradiction Matrix and how it can be used in problem, both at an individual and in group level. Introduction This week you will be introduced to TRIZ which is a technology-based, systematic methodology that aims to overcome "psychological inertia" and generate a large range of solution concepts. With the use of a contradiction matrix, it provides a framework and toolbox for systematic, inventive problem solving. Introduction to TRIZ and its Tools TRIZ was produced through years of development and therefore represents a short-cut to experience because it is a method of transforming a specific problem into a general problem. By abstracting the problem, you can identify solutions that have previously been successful in solving the general problem, and then apply these principles to your specific problem. The TRIZ process is clearly illustrated in the figure below. Short Cut to Experience TRIZ is a Russian acronym which can be translated as a theory of inventive problem-solving. It is a technology-based systematic methodology for generating solution concepts. The emphasis in TRIZ is on finding inventive solutions and concepts from other fields that use available resources. he became convinced that there were definite patterns to the way innovation was occurring and found that the same fundamental solutions were being used over and over again. Genrich and the office team developed a series of tools that pulls this experience together and can be applied to solving new problems. Since the original work, the analysis has been extended, and some of the modern TRIZ databases rely upon the analysis of millions of patents. As mentioned, TRIZ represents a shortcut to experience. You could spend your life studying, looking at iconic designs, taking note of the latest scientific breakthroughs, and generally expanding your knowledge base. This will combine with your own activities in a domain, provide a valuable set of experiences with which you can tackle problems. This gathering of experience though you takes time. The principles embodied in TRIZ can provide a faster route to the toolbox of lifetimes of experience. TRIZ involves the transformation of a specific problem into that of a general problem. The identification of solutions that have previously been successful for the general problem identified, and then the application of these principles to the specific problem. If the problem is made general, then it is possible to take advantage of the knowledge available from the solution of similar problems. The general solutions can then be transformed into specific ideas to resolve the specific problem. TRIZ: Principles and Description A common characteristic of problem solving is that in trying to improve one desirable parameter or property, another desirable property degrades. This characteristic of problem solving can be viewed as a trade off or contradiction. Conventional problem solving generally leads to a compromised solution. Altshuller noted that the most inventive solution is obtained when a technical problem containing a contradiction is solved by completely eliminating the contradiction. Altshuller found, that there were only 39 generic parameters which either improve or degrade. Examples of this parameters include items such as the weight of a moving object, speed, force, temperature, accuracy of measurement and ease of repair. If the concept of contradiction in problem solving is accepted, then every problem can be described as a conflict between a pair of parameters. Altshuller and his collaborators observed that many patrons had in the past, resolved these individual conflicts in several different fields. He also found that the principles used to resolve these contradictions fully, not as a trade off or compromise solution could be described in a list of just 40 principles. Examples of these inventive principles include segmentation, asymmetry, prior counteraction. The segmentation principle for example, encourages considering dividing an object into smaller independent parts, making an object sectional, increasing the degree of objects divisibility or fragmentation. Asymmetry is widely used in fashion to produce interesting and engaging styles. Prior counteraction involves performing a mitigating task in advance. If you know that something is going to happen, then preparations for this can be made, or action taken in advance to either prevent it from happening or reduce the impact of the event occurring. Graded Assignment: Knowledge Check: TRIZ Principles and Parameters Contradiction Matrix One of the processes Altshuller developed was based on analysis of contradiction that was seen to have been resolved in the patent. Altshuller categorized this along with the principles used to resolve the contradiction, in a tool called the Contradiction Matrix. This gives an indication of which of the 40 inventive principles are most likely to be useful in resolving the contradiction. This tool has been found to be very powerful in tackling a wide range of applications. The matrix is organized in the form of 39 improving parameters and 39 worsening parameters, with each cell entry giving the most often used inventive principles that may be used to eliminate the contradiction. This matrix is known as the contradiction matrix and is one of the main triz tools. The contradiction matrix consists of a list of parameters so that the parameter that is getting better can be identified. In addition, the corresponding parameter that is getting worse can also be an identified. The improving parameters listed in the first column, and the worsening parameter in the first row. In the corresponding intersection between the improving and worsening parameter, the table gives a list of principles that can be explored in order to resolve the contradiction. A four-step process can be followed for using the contradiction matrix. Use the 39 parameters to identify critical features in the problem. Identify the contradictions between the parameters where one causes problems with another. Use the contradiction matrix to identify principles that can be used to resolve the contradictions. Use the numbers from the contradiction matrix to look up resolution principles and use these principles to find solutions to the problem. The principles in the table for a given entry are listed in order of priority, based on analysis of previous solutions. The principal, most likely from experience to yield a helpful solution, is listed first. If exploring this principle proves unhelpful, then the next principle in lists can be tried, and so on until a solution is apparent or options have been exhausted. Practice Assignment: Application of TRIZ - 1 Practice Assignment: Application of TRIZ - 2 Discussion Prompt: Share Your Inventive Principles from Application of Triz - 2 In the previous e-tivity:  Application of Triz - 2 , you research on the contradiction and choose the possible improving and worsening parameters. You also identify the reasonable parings of chosen parameters and inventive principles. In this discussion prompt, we'd like you to: Share a few of your suggested  choices of paring parameters and principles with your peers. WEEK 6: SCAMPER The final creativity tool in the course and it is important in generation of ideas and improvement of the existing ones; SCAMPER. I became familiar with the concepts of SCAMPER and gained proficiency in its application in various unusual, personal or professional situations, whilst inspired related ideas. Introduction to SCAMPER SCAMPER is a memorable acronym where each letter reminds us of a word or phrase to provoke and inspire related ideas. SCAMPER stands for: Substitute  Combine  Adapt  Magnify/ Minify/ Modify  Put to other uses  Eliminate  Reverse/ Rearrange  SCAMPER can be applied to most domains, be it different fields of work or everyday issues where it is almost applied intrinsically.  Discussion Prompt: Application of SCAMPER to the Ocean Plastic Crisis Now, it is your turn to apply SCAMPER to the following challenge! A new plastic economy needs to be developed to tackle the ocean plastic crisis. We have an individual responsibility to do what we can in our everyday lives to makes smart choices and be a part of the much needed change to reduce plastic. In your post, select 2 SCAMPER provocations and explain the 2 ideas inspired by each to tackle the ocean plastic crisis. Reminder The 7 SCAMPER principles are as follows: Substitute Combine Adapt Magnify or Modify Put to other uses Eliminate Reverse or Rearrange. Creative Problem Solving using SCAMPER SCAMPER and use of different Thinking Styles   The tools learnt in this course on creativity are versatile and can be combined to guide and enhance an idea generation session.   In week 3 you learnt about a range of different thinking styles that can be applied to tackle a problem or opportunity from differing perspectives.  One of the types of thinking introduced in Unit 3 was design thinking. A facet of design thinking is to focus on the needs of the user or stakeholder. This can involve putting yourself in the place of the user and attempting to see the need from their perspective. This principle of empathising with the user can be applied when you are using each of the SCAMPER provocations. For example, you can put yourself in the shoes of the user for a product or service and consider what can you substitute, what can you combine, what can you adapt and so on, with a view to generate more user focussed solutions.   On the next page, the following assessment will test your understanding on the principles and application of SCAMPER. Have a go at completing the following multiple choice, text input and checkboxes questions , to reinforce the key concepts that you have learned so far. Graded Assignment: Knowledge Check: SCAMPER Discussion Prompt: Using Scamper to Improve Wellbeing Mental health and well-being present issues which leave few of us unaffected. Together, we are capable of being more mindful of our personal wellbeing, as well as having compassion and understanding for those around us. In the discussion prompt below, you are invited to share and discuss with your peers, your 7-step plan to improve your mental health and well-being using the 7 provocations of SCAMPER to develop each step. As a reminder SCAMPER stands for: S ubstitute C ombine A dapt M agnify/ M inify/ M odify P ut to other uses E liminate R everse/ R earrange WEEK 7: Using the Tools In Combination The last week of this short course ends with asking us to use the tools learned in combinations and apply them in contexts and scenarios that are also related to our own discipline or context. This aims to help reinforce the concepts that have been learnt so far and enable us to use the creativity tools freely in problem solving and idea generation. Creative Problem Solving We are introduced to a creative problem solving technique that utilises both divergent and convergent thinking. The Double Diamond Model Did you know that creativity within a design process can be framed within a model that is referred to as the "Double Diamond"? Indeed, the Double Diamond model is an illustration of a well-established four-step creative process which can help you visualise the creative journey and decide which tools are best suited at any given point. Circle Brainstorming Steps Circle Brainstorming Steps If you would like to apply this technique, these are the steps that you need to follow: Form a group of around 12 to 50 people Divide the group into teams of 2 or 3 Arrange chairs in the room into an inner and outer loop so that each team is facing another team Have the teams in the inner loop pitch an idea for 2-3 minutes to the team that they're facing Allow 5 minutes for feedback from the teams on the outer loop Move each team on the inner loop round so that they're facing a new feedback team Repeat the cycle of pitching and feedback three or four times Switch it round so that the teams on the outer loop are pitching to the teams on the inner loop, which will provide feedback Repeat this process until all teams have received feedback from their pitches 3 or 4 times. E-tivity: B-Link B-Link will enable you to create novel and interesting connections from a single keyword. You'll then use the software to generate evocative images from these new connections, which further enhances your creativity and allows you to generate new ideas that you may not have explored otherwise. Go to the  B-Link Software , and follow the instructions below: Pick a keyword and type it into the search box Explore the connections suggested by the software and play with the number of minimum steps to find more distant connections Choose a connection that interests you and use the 'Search Path' tool to find other ways that the two words could be connected Finally, use the visual combination tool to create your own provocative images. Graded Assignment: Knowledge-Check: Overview of Creative Thinking Techniques COURSE COMPLETED! Short Reflection On Its Value

Why this artefact was Included After learning about the connection between critical and creative thinking I decided to take a short course to understand how this two thinking processes are interlinked in problem solving. Additionally, I wanted the tools on how to do this which this short course offered me. Introduction Why do you need to focus on solving problems? Welcome to the course on solving problems with critical and creative thinking. People constantly deal with a wide range of problems in their lives and work. You need to solve problems whether they are internal or for a client, large or small, simple or complex. Learning better ways to solve problems can benefit your work and performance at your workplace. Given the agile way of working, you need to get over hurdles quickly and move on. In this course, you'll learn how you can solve problems using a five-step problem-solving process. You face different kinds of problems on a daily basis, some of which you can influence and resolve and some that you have no control over, which can be frustrating. This concept, which is widely known as the circle of concern and the circle of influence. When faced with these two types of problems, it isn't the best use of your time to focus your attention on problems that fall outside your circle of influence. Things that you have no control over, such as traffic, the economy, or organizational changes. What does make sense is to focus on things that you can control. Highly effective people prefer to focus their time and energy on issues where they can actually make a difference and we should do the same. In this course, you'll focus on work-related problems that you can influence, Control, and resolve with a view to helping you be more proactive and effective at work. Let's begin by exploring what kind of thinking would help you solve problems. Critical and creative thinking are required to solve problems Solving problems require a combination of critical and creative thinking. What are the differences between the two types of thinking? Critical thinking involves convergent thinking and focuses on coming up with a single solution to a problem, while creative thinking involves divergent thinking and generates many creative ideas by exploring several possible solutions. Together, they give you powerful ways to solve problems as effectively as possible. Critical thinking means identifying and analyzing a problem, and then using facts and logic to evaluate ideas to decide which potential solution is likely to deliver the best outcome. This method applies convergent thinking, as we begin with pieces of information and converge around a solution. Creative thinking means generating creative ideas by brainstorming potential ways to solve a problem. This method applies divergent thinking as we begin with a prompt or question and generate many solutions. The problem-solving process Here's the five step process that you can use to solve problems. As you go through the steps, you'll also see how both creative and critical thinking come into play. The first step of the process is identify, in which you identify and clarify the problem. This is followed by the second step, analyze, in which you examine what's happening and why. Both these steps involve critical thinking. Critical thinking in this context involves using facts and logic to identify and analyze the problem. This is where you figure out what's going wrong and what you might do about it. As we move to the third step, the problem solving process shifts from critical thinking to creative thinking. The third step of the process is explore, in which you think of several possible ideas to arrive at a solution. Creative thinking in this context involves devising potential ways to solve the problem. As we move to the fourth step, the problem solving process shifts back to critical thinking. The fourth step of the process is select, in which you decide the best solution. And the final step of the five step process is implement, in which you put that solution into practice and define how you'll measure it's success. Now, working logically, rather than by intuition or guesswork, you'll decide which of the possible solutions will be most effective and then figure out how to put it to work. The five step process is a comprehensive approach to problem solving. It helps you to not only think through a problem and arrive at a suitable solution, but also gauge if a solution works. How can you solve problems in an agile way? Some approaches on solving problems in an agile way are listed here. They enable you to apply the three agile principles of beginning with clarity of outcome, listening, iterating, and course-correcting, and encouraging self-direction. You will see further linkages between the agile principles and the five-step process, and how it enables you to work out the best solution without getting stuck. Now let's look at the five topics of this course. Topic 1: What's the Problem Let’s begin with the first topic To arrive at an effective solution, you have to first correctly identify the problem. While this might seem obvious, many people do not take the time and effort to do so. You'll find that problem solving is much more effective, if you begin with clarity and the right focus. Hence, it's important not to rush to the solution process. In this topic, you'll learn how you can gain clarity on the problem. A problem might arise from a goal that’s difficult to achieve, and it might revolve around something that needs more attention. But it always has the potential of leading to a negative outcome. If there is no negative outcome, then it is not a problem. This is an important distinction, and it’s one of the first things to consider when you start to solve a problem. The problem-solving process-Identify The first step of the problem solving processes to identify the problem as precisely as possible. By answering the who, when, where and what questions, you'll understand the situation better. This is aligned with the agile principle of beginning, with clarity on the problem before you try to solve it. You'll then have to consider the present situation and evaluate how it differs from a more desirable situation. To begin, you'll need to come up with a concise description of the problem. Write a problem statement Writing a problem statement helps you to put together the key facts of the problem, and provide a concise, accurate description of the problem. To write a problem statement, you should include key information about the who, when, where, and what of the situation, and omit the situation's causes, such as why and how, and not predict solutions as it is too early in the process to begin identifying potential solutions. This Agile technique helps you to clearly articulate what you want to achieve. Practice Quiz: What do you think? How do you find out if a problem is worth solving? You saw how to arrive at a problem statement, but is every problem worth solving? A great way to determine whether a problem is worth solving is to simply ask this series of questions. Topic 2: What's really going on? Let’s move to the second topic The most common mistake in problem-solving is jumping to a solution immediately after you realize you have a problem. That's where most people go wrong, because they try to put the solution at the beginning of the problem-solving process. But problem-solving works better if you wait until after you've fully investigated what is going on. To find the best solution, start with multiple ideas to solve the problem from which you can pick the one that might work best. How do you get to a point where you have several options to choose from? You examine the problem carefully, and then think of different ways to solve it. You need to start by learning everything you can about the problem, gathering facts, so you can work with knowledge rather than supposition and interviewing stakeholders as well as teammates or collaborative partners. You should not assume that you understand a problem just because you defined it with a problem statement. The problem-solving process: Analyze To really understand a problem, you first need to find its root cause. If you fail to do so, you risk coming up with a solution that may not solve everything or anything at all. That's why the second step of the problem solving process is called analyze. In this step, you spend time learning more about the problem, try to view the problem not just from the perspective of those working to solve the problem. But also from the perspective of the stakeholders most affected by the problem. Do not make the mistake of assuming you know what is causing the problem without fully investigating at first. So how do you analyze the problem? One simple technique that's surprisingly effective is called the Five Why's. How do you use “The 5 Whys”? To use the five whys, simply ask why? After getting the answer to that question, ask why again? To dig deeper to the next level of the cause. Continue this process, digging deeper and deeper until you have reached the root of the problem. The five whys technique helps you pair the problem down until you're clear about what it is that you need to fix. This ensures that you begin with clarity before you work towards the solution. Practice Quiz: What do you think? Practice Quiz: The “5 Whys” for Georgia The root cause! The number five is not a magical number, sometimes it takes four or six questions and sometimes you'll find more than one root cause. Just remember, the five whys is a highly effective way of sorting through a lot of information to determine the real flow of cause and effect. Many tools can help with root cause analysis Of course, the five whys is not the only way to identify the underlying causes of a problem. If you search the Internet for root cause analysis, you'll find many tools, some easy to use and some more complex. It doesn't matter which tool you use, as long as it helps you get to the root cause of the problem. Topic 3: What are my options Let’s move to the third topic You've reached a stage where you need to think about how to solve the problem. Should you stick to one best solution or mull over several possible solutions? The problem-solving process: Explore The third step is called explore, this is where we come up with several ideas to solve the problem. A common mistake that people make when solving problems is focusing only on one approach. Some mistakes are coming up with one idea and then stopping, not listening to ideas from other people. Killing good ideas too quickly because they sound strange, letting one person dominate discussions on the best solution, wanting every proposed idea to work perfectly right from the outset. One great way to ensure that you explore multiple options for solving the problem is to brainstorm, but it needs to be done well to be effective. Brainstorm to get plenty of ideas Brainstorming is an informal way to come up with ideas for solving a problem. It is quick and easy, and it works for problems that you need to solve quickly. Though it’s usually done in a group, you can also use it if you’re solving a problem by yourself. Most of you would be familiar with the process but did you know that brainstorming can be ineffective when it’s limited to your area of expertise? Brainstorming rules At this point, creativity is more important than practicality. Your goal is to uncover as many approaches as possible. Later you'll worry about which ideas will work best. Right now, the more ideas you have to choose from, the better. In fact, go for diverse quantity. You can find ideas from surprising sources. When brainstorming, particularly if it is a complex problem, involve people who are not directly impacted by the problem. Such as people in different job roles, geographies or business units who might have experienced a similar problem. A change in perspective can lead to valuable new ideas. It's fine to build on other people's ideas and even take them off into new directions. The emphasis now is on being creative. It's not important who owns an idea or who gets credit for it. This is also a great place to demonstrate the agile principle of self direction. Take the lead to allow one idea to transform into another and then to transform again as many times as people find new ways to imagine it. Try combining ideas from different domains to form a new solution. Sometimes the most creative and effective solutions emerge from this process. This is sometimes difficult, but it's important to avoid killing an idea just because you see a problem with it. Instead, stay positive and come up with alternative versions. It's common for an idea that sounds absurd to inspire a second excellent idea a few minutes later. But that can't happen if there's a critic in the group whose crushing anything that's out of the ordinary or that doesn't work perfectly on the first try. Don't be that person, stay positive. Though it's usually done in a group, you can try solving a problem by yourself. Look at the problem from different directions, not limiting yourself to just your own area of expertise. Here, you can see some ideas listed. Topic 4: What is the best solution Let’s move to the fourth topic To choose the right solution, you'll often find yourself weighing several factors, including the solutions, cost, and effectiveness. What other important factors might be considered when selecting the best solution? Selecting the best solution depends on hard work and adherence to processes. Don't select a solution because it is easy or quick to implement. You have to look for a solution that's apt for the problem. How do you do that? The problem-solving process: Select The fourth step in the problem solving process is select. It involves going through a list of potential solutions and making an informed decision about the best solution. You will need to use critical thinking again to select the best solution as we require logic rather than invention to select and implement a solution. Your focus in this step should be to ensure that you select the solution that will lead to a positive outcome and achieve desired results. So how can you select the best solution with these? The selection process can be made easy by answering three questions. What type of solution are you looking for? Who will help you make the decision? And which solution will you actually implement? Finding answers to these questions will help you demonstrate the agile principle of being self directed. Selecting the best solution will not be possible if you don't take ownership to identify the appropriate solution type. You also need to collaborate with others to identify who will select the solution. Let's look at each of the three questions in detail. Starting with the type of solution. All possible solutions for a problem, whether good or bad will fall into one of these five categories. A corrective solution corrects or fixes the root cause of the problem, after which the problem disappears. It's highly desirable, but it's not always possible. An adaptive solution accommodates the problem. It's a work around that doesn't fix the root cause but reduces the impact of the problem. An interim solution is a make-do type of solution. It puts a temporary bandage of the problem. It can buy you time while you continue to search for something better. A contingent solution is a backup plan. You have it ready in advance in case the problem develops sometime in the future. A preventive solution is created before a problem occurs, but you don't just keep it ready, you implement it. So that the problem is prevented and will never occur. Practice Quiz: Which type of solution will work for Georgia? Use these factors to identify who should choose a solution Making this decision involves balancing three factors; time, quality, and buy-in. The time factor indicates how soon an action needs to be taken. If there isn't much time available, do not involve a lot of people. Large groups often make decisions more slowly than small groups or individuals. The quality factor focuses on how completely the action must solve the problem. Remember, better solutions may require input from experts. The buy-in factor highlights the extent to which others need to commit to or buy into the solution. Consensus building yields the greatest buy-in, but it takes more time and can complicate an otherwise simple problem. Dealing with these factors is often a balancing act. You need to identify who should be involved in arriving at a solution based on each factor. Practice Quiz: Who should choose the solution in each case? Practice Quiz: Who should choose a solution to Georgia’s problem? Use the Ease and effectiveness matrix to select the best solution Once you have potential solutions in place, selecting the best one is not difficult. A good way to make this decision is by using the ease and effectiveness matrix. This matrix helps you decide what solutions you should prioritize and the ones you should avoid. If you want to make the most of your time and opportunities, the best solutions will be those situated in the high effectiveness and easy to implement quadrant. Practice Quiz: Using the Ease and Effectiveness Matrix Practice Quiz: Let’s use the Ease and effectiveness matrix for Georgia’s problem Topic 5: What will success look like? Let’s move to the fifth topic You've identified effective and easy to implement solutions, now there's only one thing left to do and that is implement your solution. The world is full of complexities, so even the best solution may not work perfectly. What will success look like? The final step of the problem-solving process is implement. When it comes to implementation, the best order in which we should do things might surprise you. Acting on the solution should not come first. Let's talk about what other action might come first instead. Practice Quiz: What do you think success will look like? How will you measure a solution’s effectiveness? Here are three things that can help you measure any solution's effectiveness. Deciding what constitutes success, deciding what you will measure to gauge that success, and deciding how you will conduct that measurement. Practice Quiz: What do you think? If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it If your solution involves things that cannot be measured, then you will not be able to determine if it is working. As you've seen, measuring the solution lets you know the extent to which your solution is really solving the problem. It also serves as an early warning system in case the solution doesn't meet expectations. Now, this is something to think about. What will you do if measurements indicate your solution is not working as well as you hoped it would. This is where you need to follow agile principles of working and adjust the solution to improve its results, improving a solution, choosing the next best solution and so on are not indicators that you've been unsuccessful. Instead, these are ways of being agile as opposed to waiting to identify the perfect solution. Be open to feedback, learn from it and adjust your course accordingly. Build an implementation plan You've decided how you will measure your solution, now, it's time to build an implementation plan. This plan will involve answering four questions, take a moment to review them. If you've correctly performed the previous steps of the problem solving process answering these questions should not be difficult, you just build a prioritized list of tasks to implement your solution. In the measurement part of your plan, be sure to include the following; your measurement steps, a step where you evaluate the results of the measurement and a step where you make changes to the solution if necessary. Course-end Assessment Practice Quiz: Solving Problems with Critical and Creative Thinking Graded Assignment: Graded Quiz: Solving Problems with Critical and Creative Thinking COURSE COMPLETED! Short Reflection On Its Value This short course helped me understand that critical thinking is part of the structural process of problem solving. It provides a logical and accurate way of finding the best solution. Creative thinking on the other hand is the way that innovative solutions are generated. Both are equally important in problem-solving.

Why this artefact was included After completing the short course I wanted to understand creative thinking from another perspective. Listening to the Andrew Huberman Podcast episode helped me to have a more nuanced understanding compared to the more structured and straight forward way I learned in the short course. PODCAST EPISODE Huberman, A. (2022). The Science of Creativity & How to Enhance Creative Innovation | Huberman Lab Podcast 103 . YouTube . Available at: https://youtu.be/KPlJcD-o-4Q?si=Jto_8LS4NgXCaHQu [Accessed 3 Nov. 2024]. Creativity is a skill that can be cultivated and enhanced What is Creativity? 1. Creativity has to reveal something fundamental about us or the world in a way the delights thrills and surprises us however we should be aware what the fundamental rule is. 2. It is combining things or not combining things in a way that appears novel. For example Escher art. Our brain does not pay attention to repetitive patterns but rather to unusual things that stand out. Escher's art invert the fundamental way our brains work. Day and Night by M.C. Escher (1938), Creative ideas and divergent thinking? 1. Two elements go into coming up with a creative idea and then implementing and/or developing into something real. 2. Divergent thinking: Taking a known object or event in the world or sport or colour etc. and asking yourself how many things it can be. The basis of divergent thinking: more that one idea can be correct. It is important to note that you are exploring ideas you have already had, so if you want to be creative you need to forge for information about a topic or area you want to be creative in. What is on the other side of creativity? 1. It is the implementation of specific combinations of things and testing those to use whether or not they are interesting, relevant, or delight us or other people. Testing whether there is a fundamental rule to reveal to us. 2. Things that are tested and are truly innovative ideas are found in convergent thinking. 3. Convergent thinking is taking two, three or five things and coming up with a concept that binds these words in a way that obeys the laws of physics and biology. For example, water, air, engine (plane that land on water). Convergent thinking requires more focus and persistence than divergent thinking, that why it feels harder. Short Reflection On Its Value This artifact expand my understanding of what creative thinking is and how creative ideas are perceived. While creativity is logical it also has an element of wonder. It is taking the knowledge, information you have gathered about how the outside world works and compiling it to create something new in a way that fascinates the mind without you knowing. For example Health systems sciences. Understanding and conceptualising large complex systems is a difficult feat. An added difficulty is communicating this large complex system to other in a way that they will become proficient in that way of thinking and eventually contribute information to it. These are all fundamental ideas that we know to be true yet Health systems sciences manages to accomplish this very thing thought as impossible. The same can be said for electric cars, people traveling to places on planes, the internet, phones. All in all, this podcast opened my mind to the connection between creative innovations and our fundamental understanding of the world and ourselves.

Why this artefact was included As I work through this competency I realise that while learning about creative thinking and being equipped with the necessary tools to be adept at creative thinking, I have moments of being uncomfortable with the out of the box experience. This hinders or slows down my progress, so to address this I watched a TEDx talk to understand how I can overcome this. TEDx Talk Corazza, G. (2014). Creative thinking - how to get out of the box and generate ideas: Giovanni Corazza at TEDxRoma . [online] YouTube. Available at: https://youtu.be/bEusrD8g-dM?si=qRnfG9GDJRXFly4A [Accessed 3 Nov. 2024]. What is the Box? The box is a boundary in our mind between what we know and what we still haven't or yet though about. It is informed by our lived experiences to keep us safe. It makes what we do not know invisible. Out of the Box? It requires us to leave behind the convergent ideas (creative ideas that have been proved as good/true for a long time) that have been allowing us to stay in the box. For example, planes only land on airstrips (solid ground). Being open to divergent information to open ourselves to divergent ideas. What now? How do we prevent ourselves from going back when things get intense. The first answer is long thinking. Don't judge small details but larger pictures. The second answer is begin to make combinations of ideas in areas never seen before, thinking of alternatives, as many things as possible that we can associate with a concept. Even if they feel like they do not make sense. The last answer is to allow yourself to acquire various information which can stimulate divergent thinking. Short Reflection On Its Value This artifact was helpful in making me persist and persevere the uncomfortable moments of developing the creative thinking competency. It helped me take of my focus from the small moments of being uncomfortable and focus on the larger goal of self-development and growth. It also equipped with strategies to acclimate myself t being outside of the box.

Why this artefact was included I included this artifact because after the creative thinking TEDx Talk by Giovanni Corazza, It was my way of allowing myself to acquire various information which can stimulate divergent thinking. I am interested in doing well academically so understanding the link between academic performance and creative thinking Critical, Reflective, Creative Thinking and Their Reflections on Academic Achievement Author links open overlay panel | Uğur Akpur Akpur, U. (2020). Critical, Reflective, Creative Thinking and Their Reflections on Academic Achievement. Thinking Skills and Creativity , [online] 37(1), p.100683. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tsc.2020.100683 . The study delves into the close relationships among critical thinking, reflective thinking, and creative thinking, and their collective impact on academic achievement. In the context of the digital era, where rapid advancements and vast amounts of information are the norm, individuals must develop the ability to select, analyze, synthesize, and transfer information effectively. This necessity has brought to the forefront the importance of certain high-order thinking skills, often referred to as 21st-century skills, which include self-efficacy, critical thinking, collaborative thinking, and notably, creative thinking. Creative thinking, in particular, is highlighted as a crucial skill for problem-solving and adapting to new situations. It is defined by its originality and effectiveness. This definition underscores the importance of generating new and effective ideas within certain limits, making creativity a vital component of academic and professional success. The study’s findings reveal a positive and significant relationship among critical, reflective, and creative thinking, all of which predict academic achievement positively and significantly. According to the study this aligns with the broader literature, which often emphasises the interconnectedness of these thinking skills. For instance, reflective thinking is described as an integrated process that emerges from the interaction between critical and creative thinking. This interplay is crucial for developing a comprehensive understanding and approach to problem-solving and innovation. The study also supports the notion that creative thinking enhances academic success, particularly in tasks that require higher-order thinking, such as speaking exams, group work, and final assignments. However, it is noted that the relationship between creative thinking and academic achievement can vary depending on the assessment methods used. All in all, the study provides valuable insights into the role of creative thinking in academic achievement and its relationship with other high-order thinking skills. Short Reflection On Its Value This paper is valuable to me because it helped me understand the importance of creative thinking, along with critical and reflective thinking, in achieving academic success. Understanding these connections helped me realise the role of these skills in my own learning and development. This knowledge inspires me to develop creative thinking further, making me better equipped to succeed in my academic and professional goals. This motivates me to try my best in applying creative thinking in my term papers and groups research projects.