Utilizing the method of De Bono Six Thinking Hats for making educational decisions

Abstract

The presented teaching scenario utilizes the technique of Edward De Bono “Six Thinking Hats”, which by using an experiential and interdisciplinary way of learning, namely, visual plastic constructions, painting, theater, poetry, and songs, guides the students of secondary education in making vocational education decisions. This scenario has been experimentally implemented in the experiential activities of career guidance programmes in the Greek secondary education. Briefly, the students of a class are divided into six teams. In the first phase after an introductory exercise in each team, they make the colored hats. The teacher walks between the teams, reciting poems that correspond to the color of each hat. Then a practical problem is given and an activity follows, related to resolving this problem. In the next phase, each team fills a dashboard with paintings, drawings, words and poems related to the color of their hat, which is presented to the entire class. Finally, the students are invited to reflect on the process of the Six Thinking Hats for solving practical problems that are associated with their studies and career choices.