1 of 15dtengineering

The Collaborative Thinking Process Introduction

2 of 15dtengineering

What is the Collaborative Thinking Process?

It is a procedure by which members of a group combine their strengths and backgrounds to produce an array of ideas that address a particular problem.

3 of 15dtengineering

There are many ways to address solving a problem. In this process, instead of relying on an individual to solve the problem alone, a group of people are used. These people can have different backgrounds and strengths. The differences yield an advantage. The work of the group produce an array of solution ideas that a single individual would have difficulty in generating.

Additionally, just one of the ideas generated is not usually the solution to the problem. In most instances, the best solution is a combination of several ideas that are infused into a single solution.

Why have a Collaborative Thinking Process?

4 of 15dtengineering

What will you be learning?

You will be given an overview of a general procedure for successful group problem solving, which is called the Collaborative Thinking Process. You will be given examples of problems and their eventual solutions. This will teach you, at a very basic level, the process that should be followed to solve a problem in a group environment.

5 of 15dtengineering

Diversity in this process is a big advantage. The more diverse the group, the broader the solution possibilities become. Some examples of the backgrounds for collaborative thinking are as follows:

Industrial Designer

Anthropologist / Ethnographer

Sociologist

Engineer Sales /

Marketing Person

Who is chosen to participate in the process?

6 of 15dtengineering

The amount of time the process takes varies greatly depending on the complexity of the problem.

For example, solving the problem of the best new way to hang a picture may only take a few days. On the other hand, figuring out the best solution for replacing internal combustion engines on cars could take months, or even years.

How long is the process?

7 of 15dtengineering

What are the steps of the process?

The process is typically divided into six steps.

Each step is completed when its objective is met.

The group may move to the next step only aftereach one is completed.

8 of 15dtengineering

What are the phases of the Product Development Process?

Step 1: Problem Definition

Step 2: Show and Tell

Step 3: Initial Collaborative Session

Step 4: Idea Categorization – 2nd Collaborative Session

Step 5: Idea Voting – 3rd Collaborative Session

Step 6: Idea Selection

9 of 15dtengineering

Step 1: Problem DefinitionObjective: • To define the problem that must be solved and set

boundaries around the solution possibilities.

Sample Problem Definition:• Product must be hand-held• Sized for men and women• 1.5 lbs. max weight• Must solve problems inherent in the previous product

10 of 15dtengineering

Step 2: Show and TellObjective:• To see and discuss solutions to other problems or

designs. This will seed a creative environment for thought and ideas.

Examples:• A favorite pair of shoes and

why you like them• A clever kitchen gadget• An automobile that you admire

11 of 15dtengineering

Step 3: Initial Collaborative SessionObjective:• To begin the collaborative thought process

by presenting ideas to the problem defined in Step 1.

Idea Format:• Words• Sketches• Pictures• Objects

12 of 15dtengineering

Step 4: Idea CategorizationObjective:• To put the solutions into logical categories in an attempt

to organize all of the ideas presented in Step 3

Sample Categories:• Desktop ideas• Hand-held ideas• Mount solutions

13 of 15dtengineering

Step 5: Idea VotingObjective:• To vote for the top three to four ideas.

Explain Your Choices:• Why do you think this is a good

idea?• Why did you select it over other

ideas?• Can it be combined with another

idea?

14 of 15dtengineering

Phase 6: Idea SelectionObjective: • To determine the best solution to the problem

outlined in Step 1.

Explain Your Choice:• Why do you think this is the best

idea?• Why did you select it over other

ideas?

15 of 15dtengineering

Using a Systematic Approach to Collaborative Thinking

The best ideas often come from the result of a group effort. Organizing and focusing a group can be challenging, especially when the participants come from different backgrounds. Using a systematic approach to collaborative thinking can get the participants organized and moving in the same direction. This will yield a solution that combines the best ideas from all of the participants.

This work was funded through the California Community College Chancellor’s Office grant #07-171-002 (SB1133) and the Sierra College CTE Community Collaborative (Sierra STEM) project.