Solution Fluency
What gives a problem solver the edge they need? The ability to define the problem and see it clearly? Thinking critically from multiple perspectives and visualizing possibilities? The drive to create and deliver a solution and conquer any challenge? It’s all of the above. And it’s what Solution Fluency is all about.
Let's Walk You Through It
The 6Ds process of Solution Fluency—Define, Discover, Dream, Design, Deliver, Debrief—are your path to gaining superhuman problem-solving skills. Learn how to tap into that power in this video.
define
Defining the problem means providing a clear and concise definition of the problem or challenge one is addressing. The purpose is to identify where we are so we can figure out where we need to go.
discover
In this stage, the research and digging begins. This involves obtaining the background information that gives the problem its context, and identifying what you need to know and what you need to be able to do to solve the problem.
dream
This is where you use the knowledge you’ve gathered to visualize a creative and appropriate solution. This is a whole-mind process where we imagine what the solution will appear like as it would in the future. Instead of asking “why” we ask “why not.” The question of “what’s the worst that could happen” becomes “what’s the best that could happen.”
design
Starting from the future, next you design the process backwards to the present to complete the visualized solution in measurable, achievable steps.
deliver
This stage is the process by which the dream becomes a reality. It’s where you actually implement the design to complete the solution to the problem in two separate steps: Produce (actually creating the solution in its working format), and Publish (applying the product in an effort to solve the problem).
debrief
At the end of the process comes an often-overlooked step—the Debrief. It’s a time to review and analyze the product and process, and identify areas for potential improvement. Students are not often given the chance to evaluate a learning journey, and this is an integral part of guiding them towards taking responsibility for their own learning.