Decision · intermediate · 40 min

Six Thinking Hats: Bias Perspectives

Use the Six Thinking Hats method to explore the issue of bias from different perspectives (facts, emotions, caution, benefits, creativity, process).

What participants gain

  • Apply the Six Thinking Hats method to explore different perspectives.
  • Analyze the issue of bias from different viewpoints (facts, emotions, caution, benefits, creativity, process).
  • Identify potential solutions for mitigating bias.
  • Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Materials needed

  • Six Thinking Hats (physical hats or visual aids)
  • Pens
  • Markers
  • Sticky notes
  • Timer
  • Whiteboard or flip chart
  • A3 paper

How to run Six Thinking Hats: Bias Perspectives, step by step

  1. Introduce the Six Thinking Hats method and its purpose (5 minutes).
  2. Explain the meaning of each thinking hat and its associated perspective (5 minutes).
  3. Assign each participant a different thinking hat (or rotate hats) (5 minutes).
  4. Guide participants through a discussion of the issue of bias from the perspective of their assigned hat (20 minutes).
  5. Have participants share their insights with the larger group (5 minutes).
  6. Facilitate a discussion to synthesize the different perspectives and identify potential solutions (5 minutes).

Facilitator tips

  • Clearly explain the meaning of each thinking hat and its associated perspective.
  • Encourage participants to fully embrace each perspective, even if it differs from their own.
  • Use a timer to ensure that each perspective is given equal attention.

Common challenges

  • Participants may struggle to switch between different perspectives - Provide prompts and questions to guide their thinking.
  • Participants may focus on their own perspective rather than embracing the assigned hat - Remind them to fully adopt the assigned perspective.
  • The discussion may become too abstract - Focus on specific examples of bias and its impact.

Running it virtually

Assign each participant a different thinking hat and have them share their perspective in a virtual meeting. Use a shared document or online whiteboard to capture the different perspectives.

Expected results

A comprehensive exploration of the issue of bias from different perspectives, leading to a more nuanced understanding and identification of potential solutions. Participants will develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

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