Edward de Bono interview
We are very proud to announce that our recent meeting and interview with Edward de Bono is now live to the world, thanks to OurManly for helping to organise and hosting the full video which can be viewed here.
www.ourmanly.com.au
An amazing man with such verve and energy, we will be posting bite sized chunks of the meeting later this month for your viewing pleasure. Thanks!
May 24, 2010 No Comments
Thinker Tool: Random Words
This creative thinking technique is used world-over in various ways. De Bono has dedicated an entire book to the practice, titled: Creativity Workout. In it he supplied lists of random words and number tables to enable the random selection of the random words. Others, such as Michalko, simply suggest picking your random word from a dictionary – eyes closed.
When using the random words technique, follow these rules.
- The random word should be a noun.
- You can not decide you don’t like the random word, then change it. You must use the word selected.
- Random words may have multiple meanings/interpretations. Allow each participant to spend up to one minute writing all the possible interpretations they draw from this word and use each in your discussion.
- Though finding a ‘connection’ between your random word and discussion point is useful, don’t be limited by this. Working in concepts and values, rather than simple associations, will improve your output.
Random Words in Practise
Write your discussion statement up somewhere that the group can see it. Now have everyone choose a random word from a dictionary. Put these in a column next to your discussion statement. One at a time, insert the random word into your discussion statement and use its inclusion to generate new extensions of your original thought.
An example
- What is the impact of wearing school uniforms.
- Random word selections: analogy, order, touching
These random words might provoke discussions such as:
Analogy – ‘Use an analogy to discuss the impact of wearing school uniforms’
Wearing a school uniform is like being a prisoner. One is made devoid of any personality and distinguishing features. It discourages innovative thinkers.
Order – ‘How does the idea of order relate to wearing school uniforms?’
Wearing a uniform pervades a school with a sense of calm and order. It minimises visual chaos and distraction so students can place their priority on learning rather than fashion. Less time is wasted on worrying about what to wear.
Touching – ‘Discuss touching with regards to wearing school uniforms’
“It is touching to see how well everyone get along”… Wearing a school uniform softens the emotional volatility of teenagers. When everyone looks the same, wealthier students have less chance flaunt it and those who struggle financially can find ways to shine beyond mere appearance. Uniforms and second-hand clothing pools can make schooling more affordable and limit the divide between rich and poor.
NOTE – As each active keyword can be open to individual interpretation, this approach works well by allowing each participant to gather their own thoughts on paper before sharing them with the group in an open discussion.
May 14, 2009 1 Comment