Lateral thinking solves problems via a creative approach involving ideas that may not be obtainable by using traditional step-by-step logic. See also What It Means To Think Critically. This is a process of thought following known cycles or step-by-step progression where a response to a step must be elicited before another step is taken. It’s easy to repeat, and to teach others. What can they do? - Definition, Theory & Examples, Introduction to Psychology: Tutoring Solution, Biological and Biomedical Linear Thinking (also known as Vertical Thinking) and Lateral Thinking (or Horizontal Thinking) were terms named by Edward de Bono in his 1967 book The Use of Lateral Thinking.. Still not sure whether you’re a linear or lateral thinker? Lateral thinking is also called horizontal thinking as it provides you the opportunity to choose between the various ideas you have. See our, Leadership Development: The Beginning and…. Idea-generating tools which break free your current thinking patterns from their usual pathways. just create an account. Create your account. So.. what does this mean? Get access risk-free for 30 days, Lateral thinking is more concerned with the “movement value” of statements and ideas. Einstein made many mistakes before coming up with his theory of general relativity and before he got it right. It’s FREE! The process tends to be efficient, organized and completed on time. Neither Linear or Lateral Thinking is the right answer for every situation. What is the difference between these two? Each having advantages and drawbacks. All; Featured; All time popular; Poisson’s Ratio. Let's say that you need to iron a shirt. As Einstein said, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing in the same way and expecting different results.” We need to adopt additional, supplemental thinking skills that will better serve us, individually and collectively, in re-engineering the culture and society in which we live. Services. Vertical thinking is a sequence of direct and logical steps that are used to come to a conclusion. Been a Teacher fan since ‘Killing Floor’ and reliving his books through yours is an enticing treat! All rights reserved. The addition of Lateral Thinking to our toolbox of cognitive tools is an important and crucial one. ‘It generally means the ability to give the “correct” answer to standard questions that do not require significant creativity, for instance in most tasks in school and on standardized multiple-choice tests for intelligence. lessons in math, English, science, history, and more. Convergent thinking is the type of thinking that focuses on coming up with the single, well-established answer to a problem. This is still commonly practiced in the corporate world but does little to teach them life skills, nor does this approach turn out very many creative thinkers.