The use of thinking tools for everyday thinking

Abstract

This dissertation explores the use of Thinking Tools whilst reviewing the availability of Thinking Tools available to the general public. Antecedents of Creativity are primarily discussed progressing to theories of creativity, the creative process and decision making. Furthermore, Thinking Tools are further explored in relation to their composition, use and lateral thinking. A mixed methodological approach was adopted in order to holistically explore the realm of thinking tools A quantitative questionnaire delved into the use of Thinking Tools post tuition at the Edward de Bono Institute for the Design and Development of Thinking whilst desk research enabled the researcher to explore Thinking Tools available to the general public via Amazon, iTunes and Google Play. The results portrayed a lack of use of Thinking Tools which can be interpreted due to a number of possible of reasons. A common factor included the need for an increase in practice of the use of tools. Desk research and manual analysis concluded a probably ease in the use of thinking tools for application based toolkits as opposed to those found in print format. Recommendations for this study include; a comparative study in the use of Thinking Tools using a similar sample group; further research into the availability of tools in print versus tools available as mobile applications.