The Collaborative Thinking Process Introduction

1. The Collaborative Thinking Process Introduction

2. It is a procedure by which members of a group combine their strengths and backgrounds to produce an array of ideas that address a particular problem. What is the Collaborative Thinking Process?

3. Why have a Collaborative Thinking Process? • There are many ways to address solving a problem. In this process, instead of relying on an individual to solve the problem alone, a group of people are used. These people can have different backgrounds and strengths. The differences yield an advantage. The work of the group produce an array of solution ideas that a single individual would have difficulty in generating. • Additionally, just one of the ideas generated is not usually the solution to the problem. In most instances, the best solution is a combination of several ideas that are infused into a single solution.

4. What will you be learning? • You will be given an overview of a general procedure for successful group problem solving, which is called the Collaborative Thinking Process. You will be given examples of problems and their eventual solutions. This will teach you, at a very basic level, the process that should be followed to solve a problem in a group environment.

5. Who is chosen to participate in the process? • Diversity in this process is a big advantage. The more diverse the group, the broader the solution possibilities become. Some examples of the backgrounds for collaborative thinking are as follows: • Industrial Designer • Anthropologist / Ethnographer • Sociologist • Engineer Sales / Marketing Person

6. How long is the process? • The amount of time the process takes varies greatly depending on the complexity of the problem. • For example, solving the problem of the best new way to hang a picture may only take a few days. On the other hand, figuring out the best solution for replacing internal combustion engines on cars could take months, or even years.

7. What are the steps of the process? • The process is typically divided into six steps. • Each step is completed when its objective is met. • The group may move to the next step only after • each one is completed.

8. What are the phases of the Product Development Process? Step 1: Problem Definition Step 2: Show and Tell Step 3: Initial Collaborative Session Step 4: Idea Categorization – 2nd Collaborative Session Step 5: Idea Voting – 3rd Collaborative Session Step 6: Idea Selection

9. Step 1: Problem Definition • Objective: • To define the problem that must be solved and set boundaries around the solution possibilities. • Sample Problem Definition: • Product must be hand-held • Sized for men and women • 1.5 lbs. max weight • Must solve problems inherent in • the previous product

10. Step 2: Show and Tell • Objective: • To see and discuss solutions to other problems or designs. This will seed a creative environment for thought and ideas. • Examples: • A favorite pair of shoes and • why you like them • A clever kitchen gadget • An automobile that you admire

11. Step 3: Initial Collaborative Session • Objective: • To begin the collaborative thought process by presenting ideas to the problem defined in Step 1. • Idea Format: • Words • Sketches • Pictures • Objects

12. Step 4: Idea Categorization • Objective: • To put the solutions into logical categories in an attempt to organize all of the ideas presented in Step 3 • Sample Categories: • Desktop ideas • Hand-held ideas • Mount solutions

13. Step 5: Idea Voting • Objective: • To vote for the top three to four ideas. • Explain Your Choices: • Why do you think this is a good • idea? • Why did you select it over other • ideas? • Can it be combined with another • idea?

14. Phase 6: Idea Selection • Objective: • To determine the best solution to the problem outlined in Step 1. • Explain Your Choice: • Why do you think this is the best • idea? • Why did you select it over other • ideas?

15. Using a Systematic Approach to Collaborative Thinking • The best ideas often come from the result of a group effort. Organizing and focusing a group can be challenging, especially when the participants come from different backgrounds. Using a systematic approach to collaborative thinking can get the participants organized and moving in the same direction. This will yield a solution that combines the best ideas from all of the participants. This workwas funded through the California Community College Chancellor’s Office grant #07-171-002 (SB1133) and the Sierra College CTE Community Collaborative (Sierra STEM) project.