INTRODUCTION TO CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING

1.2. The process of creative problem solving

The process of creative problem solving (CPS) is a structured approach that enables individuals or teams to generate innovative solutions to complex problems. It consists of several stages, each designed to encourage creative thinking while moving systematically toward a practical outcome.

Picture source: https://www.creativeeducationfoundation.org/what-is-cps/

Creative problem solving is a dynamic process that blends creativity with structure. It encourages exploration of new ideas, fosters collaboration, and leads to innovative solutions that might not be discovered through conventional methods.

Source: Sara Smith Youtube channel 

Key elements of creative problem solving:

• Divergent thinking: the ability to generate multiple and unusual ideas.
• Convergent thinking: the ability to narrow down ideas to the most promising ones.
• Flexibility: the willingness to consider different perspectives and approaches.
• Curiosity: a desire to explore new possibilities and learn.
• Persistence: the ability to persevere through challenges and setbacks.

By following these steps and incorporating these key elements, you can effectively apply creative problem solving to tackle complex challenges and find innovative solutions.

CPS is a system that helps us think creatively and come up with new ideas. It works by switching between different ways of thinking, which helps us avoid making decisions too soon. CPS is flexible and can be used with many different creative methods.