Convergent and Divergent Thinking

Mary Jo Merickel

Creativity requires both divergent and convergent thinking.

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Divergent thinking is a process involving the production of multiple answers based on what is already known.

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Convergent thinking is evaluating the possible solutions to come up with the best answer to the question at hand.

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Convergent thinking focuses on background knowledge, gathering information, applying conventional and logical techniques, and using decision-making strategies.

Convergent thinking generates established ideas.

Convergent thinking can be thought of as the knowledge base of creativity.

Divergent thinking, in contrast to convergent thinking, requires one to look for alternative answers from the available knowledge.
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It is a process whereby unexpected combinations are made, recognition of abstract associations takes place, and information is transformed into unanticipated or new forms.

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Once a person has a knowledge base, (part of convergent thinking) divergent thinking can take place. The knowledge base also makes it possible for a person to vary their thoughts from the norm and to identify a solution that may be effective.

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Examples of convergent and divergent thinking processes.

Convergent

Divergent

Using logic
Combining what normally belongs together Being accurate Finding the best answer Playing by the rules

Taking risks
Generating multiple answers

Looking from a new perspective

Combining what does not normally belong together Changing what is known

Results of convergent and divergent thinking may include the following:

Convergent
Better understanding of the information

Divergent
Multiple solutions A new or unexpected answer New methods or processes Feelings of insecurity and uncertainty

A correct or best answer

Closure on the subject Feelings of security

Creativity is not producing something new and exciting from nothing. Creativity comes from defining and refining an idea. The basis of the process of creativity is knowledge, acquired through convergent thinking. What is done with this raw material, the transformation of it, is what we think of as creativity.
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The Creative Process

Convergent thinking leads to knowledge on a topic.

Knowledge allows for divergent thinking on that topic to generate multiple answers.

Convergent thinking enables one to choose the best solution from the multiple answers.

References
ATHERTON J S (2005) Learning and Teaching: Convergent and Divergent Learning [On-line] UK: Available: http://www.learningandteaching.info/learning/converge.h tm Accessed: 25 June 2006 Gardner, Kathleen A. (1999). The Dynamic Balance: Divergence and Convergence. Retrieved June 25, 2006, from The International center for Studies in Creativity Web site: http://www.buffalostate.edu/orgs/cbir/Readingroom/html/Gardner99.html