Thinking to Break the Box Module Summary

Purpose
Break old thinking patterns and develop innovative solutions to on-the-job problems

Learning Goals
· Break old thought patterns that constrain creativity
· Use creative thinking techniques to reach innovative solutions
· Apply synergistic thinking to on-the-job problems

Design Concept
The creativity of a circus

Learning Principles
· Brain dominance theory (left vs. right brain)
· Continuous loop phenomenon
· How to avoid brain ruts
· Principles of team collaboration

Individual and Group Exercises
· The circus bow
· Two improvisational theatre exercises
· Three questioning techniques: Ask a different question. Reverse it! How would so-and-so do it?
· The Synergy Game: Use place, action, and object cards to stimulate new thinking

Discussions
· Discuss examples of problems at work requiring creative approaches and places in your life where you’re already creative
· Identify creativity boosters and blockers at work.

Application Exercise
Real-life case study: Work in teams to apply creativity techniques to address a work-related problem

Speed Bumps
Places to slow down

Action Planning
Choose the best techniques

Approximate Time Length of Module: 3.0 – 3.5 hours