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ST409 - Problem Solving & Analytical Thinking

Overview

The Problem Solving & Analytical Thinking course equips participants with essential skills to tackle complex challenges methodically and efficiently. Through a blend of theoretical concepts and practical exercises, participants learn to analyze problems critically, break them down into manageable components, and develop systematic approaches to finding effective solutions. The course covers various problem-solving techniques, such as root cause analysis, critical thinking, decision-making, and creative brainstorming. Participants also delve into data-driven methods, learning to collect, interpret, and utilize data for informed decision-making. Real-world case studies and simulations are employed to enhance analytical thinking, strategic planning, and collaborative problem-solving abilities. By the end of the course, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of problem-solving methodologies, enabling them to approach diverse challenges with confidence, creativity, and a structured mindset.

Duration

2 Days

Objective

  • Develop critical thinking skills to analyze problems effectively.

  • Learn various problem-solving techniques and strategies.

  • Enhance analytical thinking abilities to make informed decisions.

  • Understand creative brainstorming methods to generate innovative solutions.

  • Gain proficiency in data-driven problem solving and interpretation.

  • Practice collaborative problem-solving through real-world case studies and simulations.

  • Cultivate structured and systematic approaches to tackle complex challenges confidently.

Course Outline

Day 1: Understanding Problem Solving

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Session 1: Introduction to Problem Solving

  • Definition and importance of problem solving

  • Types of problems (well-defined vs. ill-defined)

  • The problem-solving process

 

Session 2: Critical Thinking Skills

  • Overview of critical thinking

  • Analytical thinking vs. creative thinking

  • Developing a critical mindset

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Session 3: Problem Identification

  • Recognizing and defining problems

  • Root cause analysis

  • Case studies and examples

 

Session 4: Decision Making

  • The decision-making process

  • Types of decisions (routine, strategic, etc.)

  • Decision-making models

 

Session 5: Group Problem Solving

  • Collaboration in problem solving

  • Effective communication in groups

  • Team-based problem-solving exercises

 

Session 6: Practical Exercise

  • Participants work on real-world scenarios to apply problem-solving concepts learned throughout the day

 

Day 2: Applied Analytical Thinking

 

Session 7: Data Gathering and Analysis

  • Importance of data in problem solving

  • Data collection techniques

  • Analyzing and interpreting data

 

Session 8: Critical Analysis Tools

  • SWOT analysis

  • Fishbone diagram (Ishikawa)

  • Pareto analysis

  • Decision matrices

 

Session 9: Innovation and Creativity

  • Integrating creativity into problem-solving

  • Brainstorming techniques

  • Overcoming cognitive biases

 

Session 10: Design Thinking

  • Understanding the design thinking process

  • Empathy in problem solving

  • Prototyping and testing ideas

 

Session 11: Risk Analysis and Management

  • Identifying and assessing risks

  • Risk mitigation strategies

  • Decision trees and risk analysis tools

 

Session 12: Case Studies and Simulation

  • Analyzing real-world case studies

  • Interactive simulation exercises to apply problem-solving and analytical thinking skills

 

Session 13: Wrap-up and Action Planning

  • Review key concepts

  • Discuss personal action plans for applying problem-solving skills in the workplace

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