Thinking is defined as the way the brain processes, stores, and uses information.
Information processing, combined with interpretation and the use of emotions, is referred to as the "mind".
How Most People Think
Basic Methods of Thinking
The brain thinks in two primary ways:
Creating Formulas: These are simplifications of reality that allow for quicker information processing.
Creating Patterns: Patterns serve as shortcuts, enabling the brain to bypass certain information when categorizing it, thus enhancing processing speed.
Drawbacks for Artists
This method of thinking can pose challenges for artists who may need to think divergently and creatively.
Brain Hemispheres
The human brain is divided into two hemispheres, each responsible for distinct functions but interconnected.
Left Hemisphere Functions
The left brain is regarded as the Rational side, responsible for:
Logical thought
Language skills
Mathematics and computation
Sequential (linear) thinking
Musculoskeletal control
It is largely inactive during the dream state (REM).
Right Hemisphere Functions
The right hemisphere is the Intuitive side, responsible for:
Perception
Creativity
Spatial relationships
Emotions
Visceral-nervous control
Associative thinking
It is most active during the dream state (REM).
Educational Approaches to Thinking
Educational systems often emphasize linear thinking:
Linear Thinking Definition: A method that organizes and stores information based on its relation to previously processed information.
Advantages: Enhances both processing speed and storage.
Major Drawbacks:
Limits problem-solving to one viable solution, which can be problematic if that single solution fails.
Reinforces the same neural pathways, making it difficult for individuals to recognize alternative solutions.
Neural Pathways
Definition
A neural pathway is defined as the connection formed by axons that extend from neurons and synapse onto other neurons, facilitating signal transmission across different nervous system regions.
Example: The optic tract connects the eye to the brain.
Development of Neural Pathways
At birth, all neural pathways are open.
As an individual ages, the less used pathways begin to disappear, restricting the available options for problem-solving.
Consequence of Reduced Pathways
If a primary route fails, individuals may find themselves with limited alternative options.
Thinking Styles
Divergent Thinking
Goal: To generate numerous solutions to a problem within a limited timeframe.
Characteristics:
Occurs spontaneously and in a free-flowing manner.
Ideas are generated in a random and unstructured fashion.
Followed by Convergent Thinking:
Organizes divergent ideas into a structured format.
Linear Thinking
Typical process of Linear Thinking is demonstrated with simple equations or steps, consolidating solutions toward a final answer.
Lateral Thinking
A method of recontextualizing information to produce various solutions.
Analytical Thinking
A specific form of lateral thinking that requires re-evaluating the context of information and using forced analogies to draw connections between seemingly unrelated concepts.
Application of Analogy
Use ‘forced analogies’ to explore connections where they are not readily apparent.
Critical Reflection on Ideas
Involves:
Recognizing underlying assumptions in arguments and ideas.
Scrutinizing arguments and comparing rationality across different perspectives.
Providing appraisals that include both critiques and positives.
Innovative Problem Solving
Focuses on learning to perceive familiar aspects in novel ways.
Encourages exploration of multiple solutions and visual interpretations of concepts.
Includes combining similar and dissimilar ideas in creative processes.
Design Thinking
Definition
Defined by Tim Brown, CEO of IDEO, as:
"A human-centered approach to innovation that integrates the needs of people, technological possibilities, and business success."
This approach can empower individuals not formally trained in design to tackle various challenges.
Systems Thinking
Recognizes that current problems are interconnected and multifaceted, requiring adaptive responses to change:
Addressing complexity in businesses, governments, and social organizations
Divergent vs. Convergent Thinking
Divergent Thinking: Involves brainstorming multiple ideas to find creative solutions.
Convergent Thinking: Focuses on arriving at the correct conclusion for standard questions and is common in educational assessments.
Stanford d.school Design Thinking Process
Empathize: Understand user needs through interviews and shadowing.
Define: Identify main concepts and challenges.
Ideate: Generate a range of ideas without judgment; prioritize ideas.
Prototype: Create quick iterations to test and understand what works.
Test: Evaluate solutions and further refine based on user feedback.
Mayer's 12 Principles of Multimedia Learning
Coherence Principle: Avoid extraneous material for better learning outcomes.
Signaling Principle: They learn better from cues that organize material.
Redundancy Principle: Avoid simultaneous graphics, narration, and text for clarity.
Spatial Contiguity Principle: Information is better understood when related text and graphics are nearby.
Temporal Contiguity Principle: Presenting related information simultaneously enhances learning.
Segmenting Principle: Break down lessons into segments for better retention.
Pre-training Principle: Prior knowledge on terms aids comprehension.
Modality Principle: Graphics paired with narration lead to improved learning.
Multimedia Principle: Words and pictures together are more effective than words alone.
Personalization Principle: Conversational style in materials is more engaging.
Voice Principle: A friendly human voice enhances the learning experience.
Image Principle: The presence of the speaker’s image on screen does not impact learning outcomes positively.