Creative Thinking: Techniques and Tools for Success from Coursera

In today’s ever-growing and changing world, the ability to think creatively and innovatively is essential. This course is designed to equip you with a comprehensive ‘tool-box’ of behaviors and techniques that will augment your innate creativity. You’ll learn how to approach problems from fresh angles, produce novel solutions, and communicate new ideas in engaging ways. This course is suited for individuals and groups, allowing you to leverage the power of collective thinking. Choose the tools and techniques that best suit your needs and interests, applying them in the order that fits best for you.

Skills you will gain

Skills You’ll Gain

1. Creative Thinking
   • Innovative Mindset: Develop an innovative mindset to approach problems and opportunities with a fresh perspective.
   • Flexibility: Enhance your ability to think outside the box and adapt your thinking to various situations.
   • Idea Generation: Learn how to generate a multitude of ideas quickly and effectively.
2. Problem Solving
   • Analytical Skills: Improve your ability to analyze problems and identify creative solutions.
   • Decision Making: Strengthen your decision-making process by integrating creative thinking techniques.
   • Strategic Thinking: Develop strategic thinking skills to tackle both complex and simple problems systematically.
3. Creativity
   • Artistic and Analytical Creativity: Balance artistic creativity with analytical thinking to foster well-rounded creative abilities.
   • Innovative Approaches: Learn and apply innovative approaches to common and unique challenges.
   • Creative Confidence: Build confidence in your creative abilities, allowing you to take risks and experiment with new ideas.
4. Brainstorming
   • Techniques and Methods: Master various brainstorming techniques, including traditional, alphabet, grid brainstorming, and more.
   • Facilitation Skills: Gain skills in leading and facilitating brainstorming sessions, both individually and in groups.
   • Idea Synthesis: Learn how to organize and synthesize brainstorming outcomes into actionable plans.

By acquiring these skills, you’ll be equipped to generate innovative solutions, solve problems effectively, and think creatively in diverse contexts, making you a valuable asset in any professional setting.

What you will learn

Understanding Creative Thinking Techniques

• Definition and Overview:
  • Learn what creative thinking techniques are and how they function.
  • Explore the theoretical foundations behind various creative methods.

Comprehending the Importance of Creative Thinking

• Global Challenges:
  • Understand how creative thinking is essential in addressing complex global issues such as climate change, public health crises, and technological advancements.
• Everyday Problem-Solving:
  • Recognize the value of creative thinking in daily life, from personal decision-making to professional problem-solving.
• Innovation and Adaptability:
  • Discover how creativity fuels innovation and allows individuals and organizations to adapt in fast-paced environments.

Selecting and Applying the Appropriate Technique

• Identifying Opportunities and Problems:
  • Learn to analyze situations to determine whether they present an opportunity or a problem.
  • Develop skills to identify the core of a challenge and the potential for creative intervention.
• Matching Techniques to Scenarios:
  • Gain knowledge on various creative thinking techniques, including brainstorming, SCAMPER, TRIZ, and morphological analysis.
  • Understand the strengths and best-use cases for each technique.
• Practical Application:
  • Practice selecting the most suitable technique for different types of challenges.
  • Apply these techniques in real-life scenarios to enhance problem-solving and innovation.

By mastering these skills, you will be well-equipped to think creatively and inventively, making a significant impact in your personal and professional life.