4. Problem solving involves making a series of decisions:
• deciding that something is wrong,
• deciding what the problem is, and
• deciding how to solve it.
5. Steps of decision making &
problem solving
• Define the problem
• Gather information
• Develop alternatives
• Weigh alternatives
• Select the best alternative
• Implement the solution
• Monitor progress and follow up
7. Decision-Making Skills
Task skills - Problem recognition and framing,
inference drawing, idea generation, argument
Relational skills - Leadership, climate building,
conflict management
Procedural skills - Planning, process enactment
8. Decision-Making Principles
Evolutionary process
Circular rather than linear
Individual-level and group-level influences affect
decision making
Decisions are made within system of internal and
external constraints
Groups provide a greater diversity of perspectives
Group provides the opportunity to test ideas before one
is selected and implemented
9. Creative Group
Problem Solving &
Decision Making
Creativity – The ability to develop unique
alternatives to solve problems.
“The process of having original ideas that have value.” – Sir Ken Robinson
The creative process has four stages: preparation,
possible solutions, incubation, and evaluation.
How people respond to creative ideas affects the
group’s behavior