Problem detectives

Why?

This method helps the students in stating and defining the problem at hand through a visual mapping. By mapping out the problem visually, the students create a meaningful, new understanding of the bigger picture. This will enrich their perception of the problem as it goes beyond a, merely, verbal discussion.

How?

Ask the students to imagine themselves as detectives that are working on a high priority case. Then tell the students that they need to define the problem at hand as soon as possible in order to take further action. As good detectives, the students put up all the information that they gather in or create on a wall (e.g. interview results, models, pictures, graphs etc.). The students can also add headlines, words, and pictures from newspapers, magazines, reports and scientific articles that can be associated with the problem on this wall. Based on the resulting, mega-sized collage, the students write a problem statement.

Tips

The students can work on their problem wall or collage throughout the process of working with the problem and its solutions.

Literature

Buzan, T., & Buzan, B. (1995). The Mind Map Book BBC Books. London, UK