Six Thinking Hats

is a critical and creative thinking training course from Edward de Bono that helps individuals and organizations throughout the world become more effective, innovative thinkers.

Six Thinking Hats

Anyone who wants to think clearly, objectively, and creatively;• Team Leaders, managers and team

members • Trainers & Consultants • Community leaders • Engineers • Marketing Professionals • Project Managers

Who needs Six Thinking Hats?

Traditional discussion is adversarial. A argues with B in the hope that the best solution will emerge.This can be depicted by two opposing arrows.

Why do the Six Thinking Hats work?

A

Adversarial

B

In Six Thinking Hats a concept called parallel thinking is introduced. Parallel thinking is where A and B do the same type of thinking at the same time. By switching between the different Hats (thinking modes) a group can more effectively explore a subject. Parallel Thinking can be depicted by two parallel arrow. 

A

A

A

AParallel

ObjectiveTo be able to understand the meaning of “Six thinking Hats” and describe each of the hats and the thinking processes that they represent.

Overview

Human brain thinks in a number of distinct ways which can be identified, deliberately accessed and hence planned for use in a structured way allowing one to develop strategies for thinking about particular issues. Dr. de Bono identifies five distinct states in which the brain can be "sensitized". In each of these states the brain will identify and bring into conscious thought certain aspects of issues being considered (e.g. gut instinct, pessimistic judgment, neutral facts).

Types of hat

White Hat - The White Hat calls for information known or needed. "The facts, just the facts."

Facts & Information

Yellow Hat symbolizes brightness and optimism. Under this hat you explore the positives and probe for value and benefit.

The Black Hat is judgment - the devil's advocate or why something may not work. Spot the difficulties and dangers; where things might go wrong. Probably the most powerful and useful of the Hats but a problem if overused.

Critical Judgement

The Red Hat signifies feelings, hunches and intuition. When using this hat you can express emotions and feelings and share fears, likes, dislikes, loves, and hates.

Feelings & Emotions

The Green Hat focuses on creativity; the possibilities, alternatives, and new ideas. It's an opportunity to express new concepts and new perceptions.

Alternatives and learning

The Big Picture

The Blue Hat is used to manage the thinking process. It's the control mechanism that ensures the Six Thinking Hats guidelines are observed.

• Encourage Parallel Thinking • Encourage full-spectrum thinking • Separate ego from performance

The key theoretical reasons to use the Six Thinking Hats

Using a variety of approaches within thinking and problem solving allows the issue to be addressed from a variety of angles, thus servicing the needs of all individuals concerned. The thinking hats are useful for learners as they illustrate the need for individuals to address problems from a variety of different angles.

Summary

THANK YOU!