Six Thinking Hats - Edward de Bono
During a lecture, we were introduced to the Six Thinking
Hats, a parallel thinking process by Edward de Bono that is utilised to help
people be more productive, focused and mindfully involved in a project. The purpose
is to learn how to separate thinking into six clear functions and roles. This
can be utilised in Landscape Architecture by mentally wearing and switching ‘hats’
to easily focus or redirect thoughts or conversation. These coloured symbolic ‘thinking
hats’ come in six colours, including:
Calls for information known or needed.
Symbolises brightness and optimism. Under this hat you
explore the positives and probe for value and benefit.
This manages risks, difficulties and problems – spots difficulties where things might go wrong, why something may not
work, inherently an action hat with the intent to point out issues of risk with
intent to overcome them, but can be a problem if overused.
Signifies feelings, hunches and intuition. When using this
hat you can express emotions and feelings and share fears, likes, dislikes,
loves and hates.
The Green Hat
Focuses on creativity – the possibilities, alternatives and
new ideas. It is an opportunity to express new concepts and perceptions.
Used to manage the thinking process – it is the control
mechanism that ensures the Six Thinking Hats guidelines are observed.
This will be an extremely useful tool when designing a new
site, as it will prevent me from getting too caught up in one approach, as well
as encouraging me to critically evaluate my own ideas. My lecturer suggested an
alternative style of this method, in which the colours represent varying
demographics of the local area. For example, considering my designs from the
view of older people – this would involve the consideration of frequent rest
points and lighting to create a safer environment, as well as areas that
encourage socialising as loneliness is a fast increasing issue amongst the
older generations. Another suggested
demographic was children, which would mean consideration of play, including
areas that encourage discovery and adventure, such as water or hidden spaces,
as well as safety measures to prevent parental concern. This is very different
to the consideration of older people, yet as it is the same site and spaces, encourages
me to approach my design with a diverse mindset, creating a place that is
inclusive for everyone.
References
The de Bono Group. (n.d.) Six Thinking Hats. Available at: https://www.debonogroup.com/services/core-programs/six-thinking-hats/ (Accessed: 9 March 2021)
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