Professional Practices 19/9

Week 10 problem Solving.
What Makes a Good Problem Solver

1. They dont need to be right all the time, they focus on finding the right solution not proving themselves right at all costs.
2. They go beyond a fixated mindset and are open to new ways of thinking.
3. They see problems as challenges, and try to learn from them.
4. They know when to do systematic and complex thinking, and when to use shortcuts to find an easy solution.
5. They have a clear definition of what the problem is.
6. They use the power of words to connect with people. Good at finding the middle ground solutions.
7. They dont create problems for others. They understand that to have their problems solved, they cant create problems for others. They make a conscious effort not to harm others. They know there will be consequences even if the problem is temporarily solved.
8. They are more about prevention than intervention. Good problem solvers can prevent problems occurring in the first place. They usually face less drama, conflict and stress since they have clear boundaries, dont let their rights get violated, and dont violate others rights. Generally a positive thinker.
9. They explore their own options. They can see more than one solution to a problem, and find new productive ways to solve them. They also have a backup plan just in case.
10. They have reasonable expectations. They have reasonable expectations as to what the solution will be. They understand that there are many elements, and that ways of idealistic thinking is counter-productive.

Today we visited Steve Solomon in his galley residency. He is currently working on a commissioned Maori entrance way for the SIT main campus. After talking to him for a while, I really got the feeling of just how emotionally involved he is with his work. He takes great care with his choices and it shows in his work and the way he talks about it.

During photography class, we visited the gallery across the road to view the exhibition currently held there. It was a nice mixture of pieces hung up although the back felt a little cramped due to the low ceiling.