Synectics

Synectics ( bring Greek " synechein " = something with each other, link ) is a creativity technique that stimulates the unconscious thought processes running. This method was developed by William Gordon in 1944 and by his book " Synectics: The development of creative capacity" became in 1961 world known. The Synectics divided the creative process into several phases.

Expiration

The basic principle is " Make thee the strange familiar and alienate the familiar. " Hence this paper starts with a thorough analysis of the problem. After that, the alienation of the original problem by forming analogies done. It tries to find by analogy new and surprising solutions.

Specifically, a synek tables session is divided into the following phases:

Requirements

The Synectics is more demanding to the user as brainstorming, because

• The process flow through the many steps is more complicated,
• Finding analogies must be learned in order to apply it in an efficient manner, can
• Qualified presenters ( in the Synectics also referred to as " juggler " ) may be required and
• Inhibitions, especially in the formation of personal analogies to overcome.

Group composition

The Synectics should be applied in groups whose composition is the same as with brainstorming groups. Individuals can also process the Synectics steps.

Time

A Synektiksitzung requires more time than the implementation of a brainstorming session. Including problem analysis, one should set about half a day. This time may be less depending on the problem without further above or below.

Implementing Recommendations

In experienced Synectics groups, the role of facilitator in turn migrate.

When performing synek matic meetings, it is recommended that the entire process - including the alienation steps - to monitor visible to all participants on a panel, on flip charts, with an overhead projector or a projector. This is done by the moderator itself or by an assistant.

Use in the classroom

The Synectics can be quite good to use in the problem-solving lessons. It enables as a teaching method, the development of creative and critical thinking. The Synectics is for example used to help students get started in writing your own poems.