Mind map
Summary lesson 4
We could see creativity as a process of divergent thinking followed by convergent thinking. Divergent thinking involves brainstorming, playing with the problem, looking for alternatives. Convergent thinking takes all the information and possibilities you have come up with and turns it into a solution. Most people are good at either divergent thinking or at convergent thinking, but usually not at both.
Convergent thinking is a term coined by Joy Paul Guilford as the opposite of divergent thinking. It generally means the ability to give the correct answer to standard questions that do not require significant creativity, for instance in most tasks in school and on standardized multiple-choice tests for intelligence.
Divergent thinking is a thought process or method used to generate creative ideas by exploring many possible solutions. It is often used in conjunction with convergent thinking, which follows a particular set of logical steps to arrive at one "correct" solution. Divergent thinking typically occurs in a spontaneous, free-flowing manner, such that many ideas are generated in a random, unorganized fashion. Many possible solutions are explored in a short amount of time, and unexpected connections are drawn. Following divergent thinking, ideas and information are organized and structured using convergent thinking.
Mind mapping, introduced by Tony Buzan is a great tool for idea generation and brainstorming. It enhance both sides of the human brain and widely used in taking notes, research or generating new ideas. A creative Mind Map is able to stimulate and create interest to the individual and also to the viewer.
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Electrolux and the Teleport Fridge
We have all seen Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and how Mike Tevee gets teleported from one screen to another. Then of course our mates on the Enterprise, they knew a thing or two about teleporting.
So far though teleporting hasn't been a central plank of any consumer electronics company's visions - well not until know. Over at the Electrolux site you'll find details of the world's first teleport fridge.
Ok, so it is an entry in a competition, but Electrolux is certainly taking it seriously-ish. Ok so the advantages are pretty obvious. You don't have to waste hours in the supermarket/or online buying your food. And if you run out of milk you just press a couple of buttons and voila there is your semi-skimmed.
But teleporting? Well the fridge's designer, a Thai student called Dulyawat Wongnawa reckons 'In the next 90 years, we will see a lot of technologies that today we think are completely impossible. Even though my teleportation concept might sound far-fetched, scientists have already succeeded in teleporting small particles such as photons. So over the next 90 years, this technology will have time to develop and become part of our everyday lives.'
Hmm. Still it is well worth watching the video as Henrik Otto, senior VP of Global design at Electrolux, just about manages to explain the concept without cracking up. I bet it took a few takes.
Anyhow click on the Teleport Fridge below to see a range of other Electrolux innovations including the very sensible wall mounted dishwasher and the slightly more ambitious waterless washing machine
