Latin American and Caribbean Consortium of Engineering Institutions

Conference Track:  Engineering Education

Selection1:       Paper

Language:         English

Keywords:         Problem Solving Innovation Invention Creativity

Contact Title:     Prof.

Contact First Name: Daniel

Contact Last Name:  Raviv

University:       Florida Atlantic University

Web:              www.fau.edu

Position:

Country:          USA

Email:            ravivd@fau.edu

Fax:

Selection:        Maybe

Submit:           Submit

Date:             Friday, February 13, 2004

Time:             05:51:25 PM

Paper Title:

Eight Keys to Innovation

Abstract:

The Eight-Dimensional Methodology for innovative thinking is a systematic approach that stimulates innovation by effectively using both sides of the brain. It is a unified approach that builds on comprehensive problem solving knowledge from industry, business, marketing, math, science, engineering, technology, and daily life. The different dimensions, namely Uniqueness, Dimensionality, Directionality, Consolidation, Segmentation, Modification, Similarity, and Experimentation provide leaders, managers, and other problem solvers with new insights and thinking strategies to solve everyday problems they face in the workplace.

The new methodology:

- Looks at problems systematically

- Enhances creative power and innovative skills of problem solvers

- Helps to generate unique "out-of-the-box" unexpected and high quality multiple solutions

- Stimulates innovation by generating more and better ideas quickly

- Increases productivity of the idea generation process.

Problems are not constrained to a particular profession or subject, and may be used by individuals and teams. The methodology works extremely well in brainstorming sessions. It is easy to teach, learn and use. The nature of the methodology makes it inter-departmental, inter-disciplinary, regionally unconstrained, and thus nationally applicable with the promising potential to be adopted by engineering and science colleges nationwide.

The Eight-Dimensional Methodology has been taught using hands-on activities that include 3-D mechanical puzzles, games, brainteasers, LEGO® Mindstorms competitions, and design projects, each of which illustrates principles and strategies in inventive problem solving. These activities allow for self-paced, semi-guided exploration that improves self-esteem and encourages questioning and daring.

Mailing Address:

Electrical Engineering Department

Florida Atlantic University

777 Glades Road

Boca Raton

Florida 33431