INTRODUCTION TO CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING

1.3. Divergent and convergent thinking

It is said that creative problem solving works, because it begins with two assumptions: everyone is creative in some way and creative skill can be learned. 

CPS identifies two distinct kinds of thinking that are essential to be creative: 

Divergent thinking: often referred to as lateral thinking, is the process of creating multiple, unique ideas or solutions to a problem that you are trying to solve – brainstorming is the divergent thinking phase of the CPS process. Through spontaneous, free-flowing thinking, divergent thinking requires coming up with many different answers or routes forward.

Convergent thinking: focuses on reaching one well-defined solution to a problem from brainstormed ideas so that those ideas can become actionable innovations. This type of thinking is best suited for tasks that involve logic as opposed to creativity, such as answering multiple-choice tests or solving a problem where you know there are no other possible solutions. 

Watch a video Convergent thinking versus divergent thinking and think:

Can you explain the difference between divergent thinking and convergent thinking?

To which way of thinking would you classify yourself: divergent or convergent? Why?

Source: John Spencer Youtube channel

In the divergent phase, we brainstorm widely, considering all possibilities without judgment. This openness allows us to explore ideas we might normally reject, leading to innovative solutions. In the convergent phase, we narrow down our options and choose the best path to reach a final answer.

Source: Creative problem solving handbook. Material of Inclusive Innovation Connector Meeting, Barcelona, 2017

The principles of divergent thinking

The principles of convergent thinking

Divergent and convergent thinking are two essential cognitive processes that work together to foster innovation and problem-solving. The divergent phase encourages open-mindedness and creativity by generating a wide range of ideas without judgment. This allows for exploration of unconventional paths and potential breakthroughs. In contrast, the convergent phase focuses on narrowing down options and selecting the most promising ones based on criteria such as feasibility, effectiveness, and alignment with goals.

By effectively combining divergent and convergent thinking, individuals and teams can achieve a balanced approach to problem-solving. Divergent thinking provides a rich pool of ideas, while convergent thinking ensures that these ideas are evaluated and refined into practical solutions. This iterative process allows for the development of innovative and effective approaches to challenges.

In summary, convergent thinking focuses on reaching one, well-defined solution to a problem, while divergent thinking involves more creativity and accepts multiple solutions to a problem.

Do some practice. Practical task. Divergent and convergent thinking

Objective of the task: to practice divergent and convergent thinking in a creative problem-solving.