Problem solving skills - straws and pasta towers

 




1. Analytical Thinking - Analytical thinking is a problem-solving approach that involves breaking down complex problems into smaller parts in order to understand each component in detail and identify the underlying cause of the issue. It involves a logical and systematic approach to problem-solving, with the goal of finding the most effective solution. Analytical thinking involves breaking down complex problems into smaller parts and analyzing each component in order to understand its relationship to the larger issue. It requires asking questions, gathering data, and making observations in order to systematically evaluate a problem and its potential solutions.





2. Decision-Making - Decision-making is the process of making choices from among multiple options by weighing the costs, benefits, and risks associated with each option. It is a cognitive process of selecting the best possible solution or course of action from among multiple alternatives. Decision-making is important in both personal and professional settings, and can have long-term consequences and implications.

3. Creative Problem Solving - Creative problem solving is a process of identifying issues, generating ideas and solutions, and implementing those solutions in order to solve a problem. It involves the use of imagination and critical thinking to approach challenges in a new and innovative way. It involves the ability to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions that can address complex issues.

4. Research Skills - Being able to locate, evaluate and synthesize data from a variety of sources.

5. Communication - Being able to express ideas clearly and effectively.

6. Critical Thinking - Being able to evaluate information objectively and make decisions based on the evidence.

7. Planning and Organizing - Being able to plan, organize and manage resources to achieve a desired outcome.

8. Persistence - Patience: Being able to work through a problem and keep going despite challenges and setbacks.

9. Flexibility -  Adaptability: The ability to adjust and respond to changing situations.

10. Stress Management - 1. Deep breathing exercises: Deep breathing exercises are a great way to relax and reduce stress levels. They can help you focus and clear your mind, allowing you to better focus on problem-solving. 2. Meditation: Meditation helps to calm the mind and body, allowing you to approach problem-solving with a clear head. 3. Visualization: Visualizing success can help create a positive mindset and motivate you to take action and find a solution. 4. Time management: Time management can help reduce stress by ensuring that you have enough time to focus on problem-solving without feeling overwhelmed. 5. Positive self-talk: Positive self-talk can help you stay focused and motivated to find a solution. It can also help you stay calm and manage stress levels. 6. Exercise: Exercise releases endorphins, which can help reduce stress and anxiety levels. It can also help to clear your mind and give you the energy to tackle a problem.

11. Delegation - Delegation skills are the ability to assign tasks and responsibilities to other members of a team, while managing the workload and ensuring that tasks are completed in a timely and effective manner. These skills include the ability to identify tasks that can be delegated, provide clear instructions and expectations, and provide support and feedback throughout the duration of the task. Delegation skills are important for any leader who wants to maximize the productivity and efficiency of their team.

12. Negotiation - Negotiation skills are the ability to effectively communicate and bargain with others in order to come to an agreement or reach a desired outcome. Negotiation skills involve the ability to analyse the other person's needs and interests, to develop strategies, to effectively present your position, to listen effectively, to problem solve and to come to a mutually beneficial agreement. Negotiation skills are important in many aspects of life, such as in business and in personal relationships.

13. Collaboration - Collaboration skills are the ability to work effectively with others in order to achieve a common goal. They involve communication, problem solving, interpersonal, and organizational skills that help teams work together efficiently. Examples of collaboration skills include the ability to listen actively, work together to brainstorm ideas, and be open to others’ opinions.

14. Emotional Intelligence - Emotional intelligence skills are the ability to recognize, understand and manage emotions in ourselves and in others. This includes self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. These skills are essential for successful communication, relationships, and leadership.

15. Conflict Resolution - Conflict resolution skills are the abilities and strategies needed to successfully manage and resolve disagreements in the workplace, in relationships, and in other areas of life. They include communication skills, problem-solving skills, and the ability to empathize with others. These skills can be learned and developed through education, training, and practice.

16. Teamwork - Teamwork skills are the abilities and behaviors that help a person work effectively and cooperatively with others on a team. Examples of teamwork skills include communication, collaboration, adaptability, problem solving, listening, time management, organization, and leadership.

17. Problem Identification - Problem Identification skills are the ability to identify problems, assess the severity and urgency of the problem, and develop solutions. They involve analyzing a situation to understand what is causing the problem, gathering information from different sources, looking for underlying problems, and identifying potential solutions. They also include the ability to work through a process of elimination to determine the root cause of a problem. Problem identification skills are essential in any problem-solving process, as they are the first step in finding a solution.

18. Time ManagementTime management skills are the ability to use one's time effectively or efficiently. This includes the ability to plan, prioritize, and organize tasks, set goals, and manage time in a productive way. These skills are important to be successful in both professional and personal settings.

19. Researching Solutions - Researching solutions skills involve the ability to identify, access, and analyze data and information to generate new ideas and develop practical solutions to problems. This involves researching existing solutions, understanding customer needs, and thinking critically to create innovative solutions that effectively meet the customer’s needs. Researching solutions skills also involve the ability to conduct research through various methods such as interviews, surveys, and literature reviews. Additionally, these skills involve the ability to effectively communicate and present research findings, as well as the ability to collaborate with others to develop successful solutions.

20. Adaptability - Adaptability skills are the abilities to quickly learn and apply new concepts, ideas, knowledge, technology, and processes. They involve being able to change one's thinking and behavior in response to new situations, to accept new challenges, and to work with different people in different environments. Adaptability skills also involve being open to feedback and criticism, being able to think on one's feet, and being able to problem-solve in the face of adversity.

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This activity also links to functional fixedness and creativity

Functional fixedness blocks creativity because it limits the uses of certain objects to those uses that the person is familiar with. This can prevent people from seeing creative solutions to problems, as they may only be able to think of the object in terms of its familiar uses. for example the straws and pasta challenge.