Synectics

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Synectics (Greek "synechein" = to connect something with each other, to connect) is a creativity method that stimulates the unconscious thought processes. This method was developed by William Gordon from 1944 and became known worldwide through his book "Synectics: The development of creative capacity" from 1961. The synectic divides the creative process into several phases.

procedure

The basic principle is “Make the foreign familiar and alienate the familiar.” Therefore, a thorough problem analysis is the starting point. Then the original problem is alienated through the formation of analogies . An attempt is made to find new and surprising approaches by drawing analogies.

In detail, a synectic session is divided into the following phases:

  1. Problem definition: Clear definition of the problem
  2. Spontaneous solutions: Spontaneous ideas are captured
  3. Reformulation: The spontaneous solutions are used to reformulate the problem
  4. Direct analogies 1: Analogies, for example from nature (bionics), are formed
  5. Personal analogies: Personal analogies are formed in order to achieve the personal identification of the participants with the problem
  6. Symbolic analogies (contradictions): Symbolic analogies are formed
  7. Direct analogies 2: We are looking for direct analogies to the symbolic analogies found, for example from technology
  8. Analogy Analysis: Analysis of the direct analogies from the last step
  9. "Force-Fit": The last analogies are connected with the original problem
  10. Development of (concrete) solutions

conditions

Synectics places higher demands on users than brainstorming because

  • the process sequence is more complex due to the many steps,
  • learning to find analogies in order to be able to apply it efficiently,
  • Qualified moderators (also called "jugglers" in synectics) are required and
  • Inhibitions, especially when developing personal analogies, must be overcome.

Group composition

Synectics should be used in groups whose composition is roughly the same as brainstorming groups. Individuals can also work through the synectic steps.

Expenditure of time

A synectic session takes more time than brainstorming. Including the problem analysis, you should plan about half a day. Depending on the problem, this time can easily be exceeded or not reached.

Implementation recommendations

In experienced synectic groups, the moderator role can turn around.

When conducting synectic sessions, it is advisable to record the entire process - including the alienation steps - visible for all participants on a board, on flip charts , with the overhead projector or a beamer . This is done by the moderator himself or by an assistant.

Use in class

Synectics can be used quite well in problem-solving lessons. As a teaching method, it enables the development of creative and critical thinking. The synectic is z. B. used to make it easier for students to start writing their own poems.

See also

Synectic-like techniques:

Individual evidence

  1. ↑ See the graphic on http://beat.doebe.li/bibliothek/w00447.html
  2. ↑ James F. Marran, Donald V. Rogan: Synectics: An Explanation of the Process and Some Comments on Its Application in the Secondary School. (PDF; 421 kB). 1966, p. 2.
  3. ↑ James F. Marran, Donald V. Rogan: Synectics: An Explanation of the Process and Some Comments on Its Application in the Secondary School. (PDF; 421 kB). 1966, p. 3.
  4. ^ Jeanne L. Dykstra, Frank E. Dykstra: Imagery and Synectics for Modeling Poetry Writing. In: Robert E. Griffin et al. (Ed.): VisionQuest: Journeys Toward Visual Literacy. International Visual Literacy Association, 1997, pp. 175-177.

literature