Unlocking creativity
Fostering divergent thinking in students is more essential than ever. Unlike convergent thinking—which focuses on finding one correct answer—divergent thinking encourages learners to explore multiple solutions, ideas, or perspectives.
It’s the foundation of creativity, problem-solving, and flexible thinking.
Why should we teach divergent thinking?
Classrooms often reward right answers and structured methods. But real-life challenges are rarely that simple. Teaching students to think divergently helps them:
- Tackle problems with originality
- Build resilience when one solution doesn’t work
- Collaborate by integrating diverse viewpoints
- Develop confidence in expressing unique ideas
How Can We Turn Routines into Creative Thinking Tools?
To promote divergent thinking, we must help students move beyond fixed routines and embrace thinking routines—flexible frameworks they can apply in different contexts. Here are three powerful strategies:
1. What if we asked better questions?
Encourage inquiry by framing questions that don’t have a single correct answer:
- What are all the possible ways to solve this?”
- “How could this be different if we changed one element?”
- “What might happen if…?”
These questions activate curiosity, open up possibilities, and help students develop both creative and critical thinking.
2. Can students think with their eyes?
Routines like «See-Think-Wonder» or «Think-Puzzle-Explore» provide a visual and reflective approach to learning:
- Use images, diagrams, or even real objects as thinking prompts.
- Ask students to sketch their thoughts or map ideas visually.
- Allow time for observation and reflection.
This method encourages connections, empathy, and out-of-the-box thinking.
3. What happens when we remove judgment?
Divergent thinking thrives in environments where students feel safe to take risks:
- Set a «no wrong answers» rule during brainstorming.
- Use sticky notes or anonymous tools to gather ideas freely.
- Celebrate quantity before quality in early ideation stages.
Creating this kind of space builds confidence and expands creative possibilities.
What kind of thinkers do we want to grow?
Divergent thinking isn’t about chaos—it’s about opening mental doors. When we embed creative problem-solving routines into daily learning, we empower students not just to learn, but to think—boldly, originally, and with purpose.