How can you develop your child's creativity, teach them to think outside the box and find original solutions? Inventive Problem Solving Theory (TRIZ) offers an effective approach to developing these skills. In this article, we'll show you how to unleash your child's creativity using this tool. And if he wants to discover the IT world, welcome to Progkids!
What is TRIZ
The theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ) is a methodology developed for a systematic approach to solving complex technical problems. It was created by Heinrich Altshuller and his colleagues in the mid-20th century. The main idea behind TRIZ is that most technical problems have already been solved in one form or another, and these solutions can be used in new contexts.
Key elements of TRIZ
No.1. Analysis of contradictions
Identify and resolve contradictions that hinder the achievement of the goal. This can be done by changing conditions or by rebuilding the existing system.
#2. Use of resources
Search for all available system resources to solve the problem, including material, energy and information resources.
#3. Perfect end results (ICR)
Determining the ideal state of the system in which the problem is solved without additional costs or changes.
#4. Laws of development of technical systems
Applying the laws of evolution to predict future changes and improvements.
#5. Inventive Problem Solving Algorithm (ARIZ)
A step-by-step algorithm for analyzing and solving complex problems.
How TRIZ will help your child
TRIZ can significantly help a child develop creative and systemic thinking, as well as in solving problems. Although TRIZ is designed for adult engineers and inventors, its principles are easy to adapt to children of different ages.
How TRIZ develops creative thinking
Searching for contradictions
TRIZ teaches children to identify contradictions in tasks. For example, “I want to eat sweets but I don't want to brush my teeth afterwards.” This forces the child to look for innovative solutions, going beyond ordinary thinking. For example, he may decide to rinse his mouth after a sweet drink or chew peppermint gum.
Brainstorming
TRIZ includes brainstorming techniques aimed at generating a large number of ideas without assessing their quality at the initial stage. This helps to overcome the fear of making mistakes.
Change initial parameters
Actions such as “zoom in, out,” “change colors,” “add/remove” help children generate new ideas by changing object parameters. This develops flexible thinking and the ability to see the task from different angles.
Analysis
TRIZ teaches children to analyze the functions of an object and find ways to improve, optimize, or replace them. This develops a practical approach to problem solving and the ability to assess the effectiveness of solutions.
Developing systems thinking
Analysis
TRIZ teaches children to see tasks in the context of the system, taking into account the relationships between different elements. For example, if a child has a new LEGO set, sometimes it is necessary to re-organize the entire toy storage system to find a suitable place for it.
Understanding cause and effect relationships
TRIZ helps children build cause-and-effect relationships. The child begins to realize how various factors influence the problem and its solution. He can also learn to anticipate difficulties and potentially unpleasant moments in advance in order to prevent them in time.
Simulation
TRIZ encourages the use of models to present a problem and solve it. This develops abstract thinking.
Problem solving
Structured approach
TRIZ provides children with a structured approach to problem solving, which helps them not to get lost in the chaos of ideas and to consistently move towards solutions.
Searching for optimal solutions
TRIZ helps children find not just any solution, but the best one, taking into account various factors and limitations.
Developing analytical skills
TRIZ teaches children to critically evaluate information and make informed decisions.
How to adapt TRIZ for children
Game format
Use games and interactive exercises to make TRIZ training fun.
Simple examples
Start with simple tasks that children can understand.
Visualization
Use pictures, diagrams, and other visual aids to better understand TRIZ concepts.
Gradual complication
Consistently increase the complexity of the TRIZ tasks and methods used.
TRIZ is a powerful tool that can help children develop critical, creative and systemic thinking that will be useful not only in school but also in life.
And if your child is interested in IT technologies, sign it up for free trial lesson at Progkids!
