Analytical and Creative Problem Solving
46 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

During the initial step of defining a problem within an analytical problem-solving model, what potential pitfall should be actively avoided to ensure a clear and unbiased problem definition?

  • Framing the problem as a disguised solution, which may prematurely limit the scope of potential alternatives. (correct)
  • Identifying the violated standard to set a clear benchmark for evaluating potential solutions.
  • Incorporating feedback from all stakeholders, irrespective of their direct involvement.
  • Explicitly stating the problem to promote transparency and shared understanding.

When generating alternative solutions in analytical problem-solving, what strategy is most effective for fostering a comprehensive and unbiased approach?

  • Immediately assessing each alternative to quickly narrow down to the most viable options.
  • Prioritizing alternatives that align with short-term goals to ensure immediate impact.
  • Ensuring active participation from all involved individuals to generate a wide array of alternatives. (correct)
  • Concentrating on alternatives that have proven successful in the past to minimize risk.

In the evaluation stage of analytical problem-solving, what crucial aspect must be considered to ensure the selection of the most suitable alternative?

  • Focusing solely on the primary effects of each alternative to streamline the decision process.
  • Evaluating alternatives based on their adherence to an optimal standard and alignment with overall goals. (correct)
  • Relying on subjective judgment to identify the alternative that feels 'right'.
  • Prioritizing alternatives that can be implemented most quickly to minimize disruption.

In the implementation phase of the analytical problem-solving model, why is it important to establish an ongoing monitoring system?

<p>To provide opportunities for feedback, engendering acceptance and refining the implementation process. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most significant challenge to overcome when defining a problem within the constraints of the analytical problem-solving model?

<p>Establishing a clear consensus on the problem definition to avoid conflicting interpretations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What constraint is most likely to limit the effectiveness of generating alternatives within the analytical problem-solving model?

<p>Evaluating potential solutions as they are proposed, limiting the exploration of a comprehensive range of options. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When evaluating and selecting an alternative in the analytical problem-solving model, what aspect poses the most significant constraint?

<p>Having incomplete or limited information about the potential alternatives. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a major impediment to the successful implementation and follow-up of a chosen solution in the analytical problem-solving process?

<p>Carefully managing political and organizational processes to overcome resistance to change. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of creative problem-solving, what is the primary implication of assuming that creativity is one-dimensional?

<p>It limits the range of approaches and solutions considered. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most significant impact of conceptual blocks on an individual's creativity?

<p>They constrain how problems are defined, limiting potential solutions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of creativity is characterized by a focus on teamwork, involvement, coordination, and building trust to achieve sustainable solutions?

<p>Incubation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of creativity is most suitable for achieving rapid goal attainment, requiring faster responses, and attacking the problems directly?

<p>Investment (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the four types of creativity is best suited for situations that demand brand-new, breakthrough products and services?

<p>Imagination (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which scenario would 'improvement' creativity be most applicable?

<p>A situation that requires high technical specialization, effective standardized processes, and focuses on quality, safety and reliability. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What outcome is most likely when individuals rely on perceptual stereotyping in problem-solving?

<p>Present issues are addressed in terms of situations encountered in the past. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does 'Ignoring Commonalities' primarily impede creative problem-solving?

<p>It inhibits creativity by preventing individuals from identifying the underlying connections between disparate problems. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the conceptual block of 'compression' typically manifest in problem-solving scenarios?

<p>By causing individuals to filter relevant information or define problem boundaries too narrowly, limiting creative solutions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way does complacency act as a conceptual block to creative problem-solving?

<p>By fostering a bias against thinking and an unwillingness to ask questions, which can cause individuals to do mental work. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to DeBono, what distinguishes vertical thinking from lateral thinking?

<p>Lateral thinking involves discovering ideas rather than actively developing them. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does increasing the number of 'thinking languages' available to problem solvers enhance creativity?

<p>It broadens the range of expressions influencing the creative process. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the 'preparation' stage in creative thought, what kind of activities are most effective?

<p>Actively gathering information, defining the problem, and setting creativity goals. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a way to improve problem definition?

<p>Relating unrelated atrributes. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which strategy is most effective for generating a greater variety of potential solutions during creative problem-solving?

<p>Deferring judgment to encourage a free flow of ideas without immediate criticism. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a rule of brainstorming?

<p>Quality before quantity. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the process of morphological synthesis for creative problem-solving, what step is taken after the problem attributes are listed?

<p>Listing potential alternatives for each of the problem attributes. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the relational algorithm technique enhance creative problem-solving?

<p>By applying connecting words that force a relationship between two elements in a problem. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which action would be the least helpful in facilitating creative problem-solving?

<p>Isolating yourself to avoid external influences and maintain focus. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Figure 3.9, what would you do first in the Model of Analytical and Creative Problem solving?

<p>Assess the problem. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main differences between analytical and creative problem-solving?

<p>Analytical problem-solving has a step-by-step process, creative problem-solving relies on the tools to help with the analytical process. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to 'Three Principles for Fostering Creativity', what is the main idea behind, 'Pull people apart; put people together'?

<p>Let individuals work alone as well as with teams and task forces (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which behavioral guideline is key when approaching a complex problem?

<p>Remember that creative solutions need not be a product of revolutionary and brand-new ideas. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the material, what is the MOST accurate definition of the 'Commitment' conceptual block?

<p>Present problems are seen only as the variations of past problems. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the the book, what can mental obstacles do?

<p>Constrain the way problems are defined. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which radar detector led to the invention of the microwave?

<p>Magnetron (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which is not a multiple thinking language?

<p>Numbers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true about perceptual stereotyping?

<p>Problems individuals face in the present are defined as problems they have encountered in the past. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If an individual fails to find the common thread that exists between dissimilar problems what are they doing?

<p>Ignoring commonalities. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Synectics?

<p>Make the strange familiar and familiar strange. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the end goal of morphological synthesis?

<p>To combine different alternatives from the attributes. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did Spence Silver's Glue lead to the development of?

<p>Post-It Notes (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Three principles for fostering creativity includes all EXCEPT:

<p>Help others succeed. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Within the constraints affecting analytical problem-solving, what is the most critical implication of 'confusing information' during the problem definition stage?

<p>It can obscure the true nature of the problem, leading to ineffective solutions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How might the constraint of 'alternatives are based on what was successful in the past' most severely limit the 'generating alternatives' stage of the analytical problem-solving model?

<p>By preventing decision-makers from considering novel or untested approaches. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most significant risk associated with 'resistance to change' during the 'implementation and follow up' stage of the analytical problem-solving model?

<p>It can undermine the effectiveness of the solution and prevent its successful integration. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of creative problem-solving, what is the primary risk of overemphasizing 'Improvement' creativity at the expense of other creativity types?

<p>It may result in neglecting opportunities for breakthrough or disruptive innovation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the conceptual block of 'constancy' MOST critically impede effective problem-solving?

<p>By inhibiting the exploration of novel approaches and perspectives. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Step 1: Define the Problem

Differentiate fact from opinion, specify underlying causes, state the problem explicitly. Identify what standard is violated.

Step 2: Generate Alternative Solutions

Postpone evaluating alternatives. Be sure all involved individuals generate alternatives. Build on others' ideas.

Step 3: Evaluate and Select an Alternative

Evaluate relative to an optimal standard. Evaluate systematically and relative to goals. State the selected alternative explicitly.

Step 4: Implement and Follow Up

Implement at proper time and in the right sequence. Provide opportunities for feedback. Evaluate based on problem solution.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Perceptual Stereotyping

The tendency to define present problems in terms of problems that have been faced in the past.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ignoring Commonalities

Creativity is blocked when individuals fail to find the common thread that exists between dissimilar problems.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Constancy

Can inhibit the solution of some kinds of problems. Consistency sometimes drives out creativity.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Commitment

Present problems are seen only as the variations of past problems

Signup and view all the flashcards

Compression

Not filtering out irrelevant information or finding needed information. Artificial constraints. Defining the boundaries of a problem too narrowly

Signup and view all the flashcards

Complacency

Not filtering out irrelevant information or finding needed information. Artificial constraints. Defining the boundaries of a problem too narrowly.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Vertical Thinking

Continuity, Chooses, Stability, Searches for what is right, Analytic, Where the idea came from, Develops an idea.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Lateral Thinking

Discontinuity, Changes, Instability, Searches for what is different, Provocative, Where the idea is going, Discovers the idea.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Synectics

Make the strange familiar and the familiar strange

Signup and view all the flashcards

Types of Analogies

Use analogies: personal, direct, symbolic, and fantasy

Signup and view all the flashcards

Elaborate the Definition

Elaborate 2 different plausible definitions – think in plurals

Signup and view all the flashcards

Reverse the Definition

Turn the problem upside down

Signup and view all the flashcards

Rules of Brainstorming

No evaluation of ideas is permitted, Wild ideas are encouraged, Quantity before quality, Build on ideas of others

Signup and view all the flashcards

Morphological Synthesis

The problem is written down, Attributes of the problem are listed, Alternatives to each attribute are listed, Different alternatives from the attributes are combined.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Relational Algorithm

Applying connecting words that force a relationship between two elements in a problem

Signup and view all the flashcards

Facilitate Creative Problem-Solving

Give yourself relaxation time, Find a place where you can think, Talk to other people about ideas, Protect yourself from idea-killers.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Fostering Creativity

Pull people apart; put people together. Monitor and prod. Reward multiple roles.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Problem Assessment = YES

Outcomes predictable and sufficient information present

Signup and view all the flashcards

Problem Assessment = NO

Outcomes not predictable or insufficient information present

Signup and view all the flashcards

Constraints when defining problems

Lack of consensus on the problem, acceptance of problem definition, Symptoms are often confused with the real problem, confusing information

Signup and view all the flashcards

Constraints when generating alternatives.

Alternatives are evaluated as they are proposed, few possible alternatives are usually known

Signup and view all the flashcards

Constraints when evaluating alternatives.

Information on alternatives is limited, the type of information is constrained by other factors, preferences for the best alternatives are not always known.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

Chapter 3 Overview

  • The chapter is about Analytical and Creative Problem Solving
  • It explores a model for problem-solving, constraints, impediments, and ways to foster creativit

Learning Objectives

  • Increase analytical problem-solving proficiency.
  • Recognize personal conceptual blocks.
  • Enhance creativity by overcoming conceptual blocks.
  • Foster innovation among others.

Model of Problem-Solving - Step 1: Define the Problem

  • Differentiate fact from opinion when defining the problem.
  • Specify the underlying causes of the problem.
  • Gather information from everyone involved to fully understand the problem.
  • State the problem explicitly to avoid ambiguity.
  • Identify the violated standard to understand the problem's impact.
  • Know whose problem it is to assign ownership and accountability.
  • Stating the problem as a disguised solution should be avoided.

Model of Problem-Solving - Step 2: Generate Alternative Solutions

  • Postponing the evaluation of alternatives can lead to more creative solutions.
  • Involve all relevant individuals in generating alternatives for broader perspectives.
  • Ensure alternative solutions align with overall goals.
  • Specify both short- and long-term solutions for a comprehensive approach.
  • Building on others' ideas fosters collaborative innovation.
  • The alternative should be a direct solution to the defined problem.

Model of Problem-Solving - Step 3: Evaluate and Select an Alternative

  • Evaluate alternatives relative to an optimal standard for comparison.
  • Alternatives must be evaluated systematically to get a comprehensive approach
  • Alternatives must be evaluated relative to goals to measure its effectiveness
  • The evaluation should consider both main and side effects of the alternatives.
  • The selected alternative should be stated clearly for clarity and agreement.

Model of Problem-Solving - Step 4: Implement and Follow Up on the Solution

  • Implementation should occur at the right time and in the correct order.
  • Opportunities for feedback promote continuous improvement.
  • Acceptance by stakeholders is a key factor for success.
  • An ongoing monitoring system is necessary to track progress and address issues.
  • Evaluation should be based on how well the problem is solved to check if it meets expectations.

Constraints on Analytical Problem-Solving - Step 1: Defining Problems

  • Lack of consensus on the problem can result in solutions that do not solve the right problem
  • Acceptance of the problem definition by the stakeholders is important.
  • Symptoms are often confused with the real problem.
  • Confusing information may mask the real problem.

Constraints on Analytical Problem-Solving - Step 2: Generating Alternatives

  • Alternatives are frequently evaluated as they are proposed, which limits creative solution generation.
  • Few potential alternatives are commonly known, restricting the range of options.
  • The first potential solution which is deemed acceptable is usually accepted, regardless of how good it is
  • Alternatives are based on what was successful in the past
  • There are many limitations based on personal preferences

Constraints on Analytical Problem-Solving - Step 3: Evaluating and Selecting Alternatives

  • There is limited information on alternatives
  • Information searches occur close to home, restricting the range of knowledge
  • Search types are limited to certain fields.
  • Gathering information can be costly.
  • Preferences for the best alternatives are not always known.

Constraints on Analytical Problem-Solving - Step 4: Implementation and Follow-Up

  • Acceptance from stakeholders are not always possible
  • Resistance to change is common
  • It can be difficult to decide which portion of the solution to monitor
  • Political and organizational processes must be managed.
  • Implementation of some solutions can take a long time.

Impediments to Creative Problem-Solving

  • Most people assume creativity is one-dimensional.
  • Almost everyone has created blocks that inhibit our creativity.

Conceptual Blocks

  • These can inhibit all four different approaches to creativity.
  • These are mental obstacles, that affect how problems are defined.
  • Overcoming blocks can lead to innovative solutions.
  • Percy Spencer's Magnetron, a radar detector, led to the microwave.
  • Spence Silver's Glue led to Post-It Notes.
  • Constancy can inhibit the solution of some kinds of problems.
  • Consistence can push creativity out.
  • Commitment occurs when problems are seen only as past variations.
  • Compression lacks filtering irrelevant information or finding needed information. Artificial constraints defining the boundary too narrowly
  • Complacency doesn't filter out irrelevant information or finding needed information. Artificial constraints defining the boundary too narrowly

Ways of Thinking

  • Vertical thinking focuses focuses on continuity, and is analytic.
  • Lateral thinking focuses discontinuity and discovering things.

Multiple Thinking Languages

  • The more linguistic means available, the more creative the solution will be:
  • Example: Words
  • Symbols
  • Senses (i.e., Smell)
  • Feelings and Emotions
  • Visual Imagery

Improving Problem Definition

  • Synectics involves making the strange familiar and the familiar strange.
  • Analogy use includes personal, direct, symbolic, and fantasy analogies.
  • The elaboration of two different plausible definitions should be done. Think in plurals.
  • Reversing a definition simply means turn the problem upside down.

Ways to Generate More Alternatives

  • Defer judgment through brainstorming.
  • Expand the current options - subdivide
  • Combine unrelated attributes via a relational algorithm and morphological synthesis.

Rules of Brainstorming

  • Brainstorming benefits from suspending any evaluation of potential ideas.
  • Wild ideas are encouraged in brainstorming sessions.
  • Quantity should come before quality in the initial phases
  • People should build on others' ideas

Morphological Synthesis

  • Initially, the problem is defined.
  • The attributes of the problem are listed down
  • The alternatives to each attribute are then listed.
  • The final step would be combining different alternatives from the attributes.

Relational Algorithm

  • Relational algorithms apply connecting words that enforce relationships between elements in a problem

Hints to Facilitate Creative Problem-Solving

  • Relaxation time is necessary
  • Find a location where you can think
  • Talking to other people aids ideas
  • Asking other people for suggestions about your problems enhances creativity
  • Reading is a great habit
  • Being protected from idea-killers is important

Three Principles for Fostering Creativity

  • Pull people apart and put them back together
  • Monitoring and Prodding are good habits
  • Rewards should exist for multiple roles

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

Related Documents

Description

This resource explores analytical and creative approaches to problem-solving. It covers a problem-solving model, from defining the problem to generating alternative solutions. It also discusses constraints, impediments, and techniques to foster creativity and innovation.

More Like This

Purposeful Problem-Solving Techniques
10 questions
Effective Problem Solving Techniques
1 questions
Problem Solving and Creativity
42 questions

Problem Solving and Creativity

UserReplaceablePyrite4262 avatar
UserReplaceablePyrite4262
Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Browser