Six Thinking Hats

Essay # 103385

Psychology > Theory
Sociology > Theory

Six Thinking Hats

This paper discusses decision making using Dr. Edward de Bono's six thinking hats method.

1,000 words () | 4 sources | APA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer discusses Dr. Edward de Bono's six thinking hats method of decision making. The writer points out that this method is general enough to be used under a wide variety of circumstances and has enough substance that it can be examined more closely. The writer then looks at each of the individual methods. The writer maintains that the de Bono method's use of differing colors to identify differing perspectives allows for near instant immersion into effective creative thinking without having much experience in the matter. The writer concludes that while not a substitution for experience it is definitely a great starting point for learning how to make an effective decision.

Outline:
Decision Making
The Hats
White Hat
Red Hat
Yellow Hat
Black Hat
Green Hat
Blue Hat
Six Thinking Hats in Action
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"De Bono uses colors to identify the different hats in his method. The colors used are white, red, black, yellow, green, and blue. Each color relates to a specific perspective of the problem and decision that needs to be made. The purpose of the hats is intended to be figurative but it can lend itself to a more concrete understanding of the concept when taken literally. Thinking hats, both literally and figuratively, are helpful for individuals who learn through seeing and visualization as the colors are used as a visual representation of the different focus and perspectives needed."

Sample of Sources Used:

Bridges, C. (2006). How to decide what thinking cap not to wear. Financial Advisor. Retrieved April 5, 2008, from General OneFile database.
Dymer, C. (2004). Six hats to manage your next meeting. (On Site)(Six Thinking Hats). Successful Meetings 53.9. Retrieved April 5, 2008, from General OneFile database.
Jawali M. (2005). Chappell goes mental with de Bono sixer. The Times of India. Retrieved April 5, 2008, from General OneFile database.
Teachnet.com. (2000). Classroom management: Six Thinking Hats. Retrieved April 5, 2008, from http://www.teachnet.com/how-to/manage/sixhats120800.html