Divergent & Convergent Tools
In simple words, we can define Divergent tools as tools for (Generating ideas) and Convergent tools as tools for (Evaluating ideas).
If we are facing a problem, for example, and we need to find or create as much solutions and plans as we can then we need to use one of the divergent tools such as:
- Brainstorming
- Brain writing
- Forced Connection
- SCAMPER
But if were are about to combine or choose one solutions of many, then we can use on of the convergent tools such as:
- Hits
- Highlighting
- PPCO
- Evaluation Matrix
Assignment A:
1. Using the brainstorming tool as a divergent tool, teachers started generating ideas about the end of year ceremony.
2. Then using the PPCO they focused on the most important needs and problems
3. Then started brainstorming again for more solutions and options
4. Forced connection was used to pull the teacher's attention to the generate more ideas about training children during the hot weather
4 videos:
Evaluation Matrix:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=FLqxXRHBreS-NwIaOzRPfCfw&v=ZO5ou7G5HYM
This tool is to narrow options and build consensus. If we have up to 10 options, then this tool would be great to evaluate and choose the best option by marking each option with details .
Example of use: Buying a car, travelling for a vacation, getting a job.
Brainstorming:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLmlhvTsUQWVASG-EWyXMTbNDrrp1OZZYR&v=6IzsuBuAgyM
When it comes to generating many ideas in a brilliant flow, brainstorming is the best solution. Brainstorming can be done in a group of people were each one generates an idea, share it and stick it on the board. At the end best solutions are chosen and processed.
Example of use: what are the advantages of studying art, in what ways can we reduce pollution, how might we increase creativity in classroom
SCAMPER:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLmlhvTsUQWVASG-EWyXMTbNDrrp1OZZYR&v=2asOjJjupTQ
This tool is mostly used to generate more and more ideas about one subject. To enforce thinking out of the box by asking those questions:
- Substitute.
- Combine.
- Adapt.
- Modify.
- Put to another use.
- Eliminate.
- Reverse.
Webbing (Why, What's stopping you):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLmlhvTsUQWVASG-EWyXMTbNDrrp1OZZYR&v=YPEnflXC8do
This tool can clear the fog of any problem. Generate ideas about reason of attempting to do something by asking why and generating more than one reason then specify each reason until you reach the most clear vision. Then by asking what's stopping you question you reach to the real reason of any barrier.
Example of use: Achieving a goal like starting your own job, studying abroad, working with grade 3 children.