ProblemSolvingProtocol

From UoWiki

A set of rules and procedures that can assist individuals or groups in solving problems. A key characteristic of these protocols are that they are easy to learn, remember and use.

Protocols are used to direct the attention of groups or individuals as they work through a problem. They help to focus attention on different aspects of a problem in a systematic fashion. This helps overcome mental blocks in individuals and gridlock in groups.

They seem to work by helping to manage the thinking process, structuring the conversation a person has with him/herself, or that a group of people have with each other. This reduces the effort required to think about and therefore solve a problem.

Protocols can come packaged as techniques, methods, steps, games etc. One or more protocols may be used in a given situation.

Examples:

• SixThinkingHats - A ParallelThinking technique, for use by groups.
• TheGrowModel - A technique used to structure coaching sessions.
• GOAL Problem-Solving Protocol - An approach promoted by the physics department of University of North Carolina.