How can you use creative problem-solving in lesson plans?

1 Define the problem

Before you ask your students to solve a problem, you need to define it clearly and concisely. You can use a question, a scenario, a case study, or a prompt that relates to the learning objectives and the real world. For example, if you are teaching math, you can ask your students to design a budget for a trip, or if you are teaching science, you can ask them to investigate a mystery disease. The problem should be challenging but not impossible, and it should allow for multiple solutions and approaches.

2 Encourage brainstorming

Brainstorming is a key step in creative problem-solving, as it helps students generate many possible ideas without judging them. You can use various techniques to facilitate brainstorming, such as mind mapping, word association, SCAMPER, or reverse brainstorming. You can also encourage your students to work in groups, use different media, and ask open-ended questions. The goal is to stimulate their imagination and curiosity, and to avoid limiting their options.

3 Evaluate and select ideas

After brainstorming, you need to help your students evaluate and select the best ideas for solving the problem. You can use criteria such as feasibility, relevance, originality, impact, or cost. You can also use tools such as pros and cons lists, rating scales, or decision matrices. You can ask your students to present their ideas to the class, and to give and receive feedback. The goal is to help them refine their ideas and choose the ones that are most suitable and effective.

4 Implement and test solutions

The final step in creative problem-solving is to implement and test the solutions that your students have selected. You can ask them to create a prototype, a model, a simulation, a report, or a presentation that demonstrates their solution. You can also ask them to test their solution with real or hypothetical users, data, or scenarios. You can help them measure the results, identify the strengths and weaknesses, and suggest improvements. The goal is to help them apply their ideas and learn from their outcomes.

5 Incorporate reflection and feedback

Creative problem-solving is not a linear process, but a cyclical one that involves reflection and feedback. You can ask your students to reflect on their problem-solving process, their solution, and their learning. You can also provide them with constructive feedback that highlights their achievements and areas for improvement. You can use tools such as journals, portfolios, rubrics, or peer reviews. The goal is to help them develop their metacognitive skills and their growth mindset.

6 Use examples and resources

One of the best ways to use creative problem-solving in your lesson plans is to use examples and resources that showcase how others have solved problems creatively. You can use stories, videos, podcasts, games, or websites that feature inventors, entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, or activists who have used creative problem-solving in their fields. You can also use platforms such as TED-Ed, PBLWorks, or Creative Educator that offer ready-made or customizable lesson plans that incorporate creative problem-solving. The goal is to inspire your students and show them the possibilities and benefits of creative problem-solving.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?