By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Overcome challenges in idea generation
- Understand the importance of natural idea generation
- Show an awareness to fixation
- Understand how to develop multiple ideas.
Class Length
40 minutes
Year Groups
All ages
Resources
Computer, projector, printed handouts, pencils, ear buds.
1. Challenges in Idea Generation
• Many methods, but some too specific, or too broad?
• Ideal situation in idea generation
• The importance of generating multiple ideas.
2. Fixation
• What is fixation?
• Limiting nature of fixation
• Ways to overcome fixation
3. Idea Generation
• Break the problem into parts; analysis
• Brainstorm ideas from your head; natural idea generation
• Strive for more ideas using SCAMPER
Activity 1
To overcome fixation, and work toward generating multiple ideas, break the problem into parts. Students will create a mind-map for each keyword in the problem statement.
Activity 2
It is important for students to capture the ideas straight from their head, before they look for inspiration elsewhere. Otherwise they may fixate on existing ideas, rather than their own ideas.
So using brainstorming, students will capture their natural ideas, from their head.
Activity 3
We all find it difficult to think of multiple ideas. SCAMPER will help students push their thinking further using simple prompts (SCAMPER).