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An instructor using Synectics and creative problem-solving techniques can teach students to solve a multitude of academic challenges.
Synectics: Introduction to the Model
Synectics is a creative problem-solving process developed by William J. J. Gordon and George Prince in the 1960s (Gordon, 1961). A result of Gordon and Prince observing brainstorming sessions that achieved varying levels of success, Synectics outlines the processes that people can use to help them overcome mental blocks while working on difficult tasks. By using Synectics, people's divergent thinking and capacity for solving problems increase. Using Synectics with my technology education students and Technology Student Association members, I have had widespread success.
Creating Something New
When fostering the creation of new ideas, the technology education instructor and students can use strategies designed to "make the familiar strange, to help students see old problems, ideas, or products in a new, more creative light" (Joyce, Weil, Calhoun, 2004).
The Steps to Making Something New from the Old
Step 1: Define or describe the current situation or problem.
(Ex: Write a paragraph describing construction. Write a paragraph describing what a bridge is. At the end of this exercise you will be building a bridge from unusual materials to hold the most weight possible.)
Step 2: Write down ideas about direct analogies.
(Ex: How is a bridge like a house?)
Step 3: Write down your reactions to personal analogies.
(Ex. How would you feel if you were a bridge?)
Step 4: Explore compressed conflicts and form an oxymoron.
(How is a bridge both awkward and well coordinated?)
Step 5: Write down new direct analogies.
(Ex: Review and rewrite your descriptions of construction and bridges.)
Step 6: Reexamination of the Original Situation or Problem.
(Ex: Create a bridge that can hold the most weight possible using only 100 round toothpicks, one 8.5" × 11" piece of waxed paper, glue, and scissors.)
Making the Strange Familiar
Alternately, when approaching something totally foreign to students, instructors can use Synectics strategies to make the strange familiar to their students.
Step 1: Substantive Input: The teacher gives the students background on a new topic or problem.
(Ex: Today we're going to write our own science fiction stories. Who can tell me what science fiction is? What are good science...