APS 5-6 Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Overview
• Unpack critical thinking as a mental process and set of action steps to address everyday problems
• Use a structured systems thinking approach to analysing problems and designing solutions
• Leverage the skills of creative and lateral thinking in complex problem solving
• Overcome common roadblocks to critical thinking and problem solving
Speakers
Kym Viant
Kym is an expert in leadership development, having successfully led, inspired and developed thousands of leaders and managers, from emerging leader to senior executive. He is well recognised as an engaging and dynamic facilitator, educator and coach, who brings this energy to the learning environment to connect and motivate individuals and groups in establishing effective and measurable behavioural changes.
He is currently working with clients, in both the public and private sectors, to develop, deliver and implement constructive behaviours and critical skills for individuals and groups. Prior to Kym’s move into the learning and development space, he had a decorated and distinguished career in the Royal Australian Navy spanning over 24 years.
Leadership Facilitator & Coach
Kym Viant Consulting
Agenda
Critical thinking and problem solving as a key priority in the APS
- Review the current context and landscape for problem-solving in the APS
- Why problem-solving has been identified as a top skilling priority across all levels of the APS
- How critical thinking provides the necessary lens to frame problems rationally and produce evidence-based solutions
- How problem-solving ability could drive your career advancement
Unpacking critical thinking techniques
- The cognitive principles, tools and strategies essential to critical thinking
- Reviewing critical thinking tools, identifying limitations and strengths
- Learning how to objectively collect and evaluate evidence
- Developing whole-brain thinking and exploring creative thinking for generating new ideas and making connections
Problem-solving methods and key tools
- Reviewing common types of problems
- Root cause analysis - getting to the heart of the problem
- Explore how Systems Thinking is applied to provide clarity around root causes, interdependencies, possible constraints and outcomes
- Creating a process map or mind map to provide clarity around the problem
- Creative problem-solving techniques and activities
Working with others on problem-solving
- Facilitating a shared understanding of issues and problems
- Preparation and presentation of evidence-based arguments and solutions
- Resolving conflict and challenges in group problem solving
- Addressing cognitive biases, ideological conflict and problems arising in groups
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Kym Viant Leadership Facilitator & Coach Kym Viant Consulting
Definition: Understanding the problem
- Defining key variables and causal factors
- Evaluating problem impacts and considering solution criteria
- Identifying the scope, stakeholder impact, interdependencies, and constraints of the problem
Analysis: Identifying and evaluating possible solutions
- Evaluate solutions based on feasibility, impact and risk
- How to approach complex or ‘wicked problems’ (problems resistant to conventional resolution)
- Review tools, priorities and resources available (including expertise)
Implementation: The problem-solving process in action
- Applying a critical thinking lens throughout the problem-solving process
- Analysing variables, conducting root-cause analysis, and considering interdependencies
- Design of possible solutions, opportunities or courses of action
- Selection and deployment of solution
- Decision on Implementation
- Monitoring, learning and evaluation
Cultivating your skills and maintaining your edge as a critical thinker
- Wrap up discussion on key themes
- Develop an action plan to apply new problem-solving skills in the workplace
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Kym Viant Leadership Facilitator & Coach Kym Viant Consulting
Pricing
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Venue
Join us online, from the comfort of your home or office.