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Definition of Thinking

  • 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.