Brainstorming
Purpose
Brainstorming is a way to generate ideas within a group setting. It is usually used in the beginning stages of a project, where the possibilities for the project are not clearly understood or defined. It provides a quick means for tapping the creativity of a limited number of people for a large number of ideas. The brainstorming environment fosters an uninhibited, non-judgmental explosion of ideas, concepts, policies, decisions, and strategies. In brainstorming, all contributions are valid, and the key to a successful session is to share as many ideas as possible without evaluating them. 
Brainstorming sessions can be unstructured - that is, there may not be a moderator or facilitator. Most sessions, however, are facilitated, structured discussions with guidelines to help the process move along smoothly and allow a variety of perspectives and ideas to surface.
Goals and Objectives
Upon completion of this tutorial, you will be able to:
- Describe the techniques of effective brainstorming
- Identify and use common brainstorming techniques and rules
- Explain the rules of brainstorming
- List and use the factors for effective brainstorming
- Evaluate and practice good brainstorming techniques
- Utilize a checklist to ensure brainstorming sessions are optimal experiences
Activities
Read the information about brainstorming and complete the activities.
- Brainstorming Techniques
- Brainstorming Factors
- Activity 1: A Role-Playing Scenario
- Evaluating a Brainstorming Session
- Group Brainstorming Session Checklist
- Activity 2: Quiz Yourself about Brainstorming
- Activity 3: Comparing Information and Ideas
- Activity 4:Reflecting on Pluses and Minuses
- Activity 5: Nominal Group Technique for Brainstorming
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References
Summary
Instructor's Guide
