Page 220 - Foundations of Learning, 4th Edition (Revised)

Now that you’ve seen an example, give the Information Processing Methodology a try.

PROCEED TO ACTIVITY 8.1 (page 223)

Highlighted Information Processing Skills

The following information processing skills will be discussed or presented in more detail: brainstorming,
listening, and memorizing.

Brainstorming

Brainstorming is a process which involves generating ideas or potential solutions to
a problem in a rapid manner without judgment or criticism. Though brainstorming
is generally more effective when performed in a group, individual brainstorming is
possible. The premise is that the more ideas that are generated, the greater the likelihood
of finding a good solution or idea. Brainstorming has three phases, 1) generating
ideas, 2) discussion and evaluation, and 3) planning for future action.

During the idea generation phase there are some common rules to consider:
• Define the problem or task; typically stated in the form of a question
• Set a time limit
• Identify a recorder to write down the ideas/solutions; recording can be in the form of lists or
sentences, or by drawing a map or “tree”
• Write so that all can easily see what’s being recorded. Use a flip chart, LCD or overhead projector,
whiteboard or blackboard
• Generate and collect as many ideas as possible; all ideas are welcome
• Be creative; no idea is too silly or wild
• Build upon other’s ideas
• Don’t criticize or judge; all ideas are equally valuable at this point
• Don’t spend time discussing individual ideas
• Don’t spend time wordsmithing ideas (fiddling with the exact wording)

There is no right way to perform the evaluation phase. The following are some general guidelines:
• Determine criteria to be used for selecting the “best” ideas or potential solutions
• Modify the list by combining, consolidating, amending, and deleting ideas; allow for open
discussion at this time
• Reduce the list further to include no more than one third of the total ideas; each person votes or
ranks the ideas
• Once again, vote or rank (on a scale of 1–5) the ideas to determine the best idea(s); note that there
may not be one best solution or idea

Finally, the planning phase involves taking the chosen idea(s) and creating an action or implementation
plan. Outline the steps to be taken and identify factors which may effect the implementation of the plan.

214 Foundations of Learning