Creative Problem Solving Institute (CPSI) 2017

Homelessness, poverty, education, racism and natural-resource management are examples of big hairy problems that persist on local, national and international scales. Because these issues are so overwhelming and polarizing, many shy away from having meaningful dialogue as a part of trying to solve these issues. This workshop asks you to meld dialogic theory and Creative Problem Solving to develop methods, tools and processes that can be applied to complex social issues in ways that result in insight and actionable solutions. A key component is how to listen and integrate diverse voices in resulting solutions. We will explore perspectives to CPS efforts through the lenses of social service organizations, advocacy groups and business. We will look at how communication rituals can impede dialogue, identify tools and techniques that can be used to explore presumptions, explore approaches that enhance listening and integration of diverse voices, and play with how a mash up of CPS and dialogue amplifies the creative process in pursuit of big solutions. You will:
• Recognize dynamics of social-issue problem solving.
• Identify ways to foster meaningful participation from, and attention to, diverse voices.
• Map a process to facilitate problem solving of big, hairy problems.