Why Creative Problem Solving
At the Portal, we emphasise a readiness to learn, a desire for exploration and joy of discovery; but what's more important than acquiring knowledge is developing skills that are transferrable, from music to other areas, but also vice versa. And no attributes come more critical than creativity and problem solving.
Through the three electives offered here, students will learn to think critically, and present their creative thoughts and ideas with confidence, orally, through craftsmanship or in multimedia.
Think-n-Speak
Think-n-Speak is a 12-hour course designed to enhance students’ critical thinking, communication and persuasive skills. Through working together in teams, analysing problems, and presenting creative solutions, students are inspired to think outside the box and articulate their viewpoints persuasively and respectfully.
Students will first learn essential public speaking and debating skills. Then, they will tackle real world challenges with their teammates. By practising active listening, participants learn to collaborate with peers effectively. They will also learn to analyse diverse perspectives with respect and empathy. Finally, participants will present their findings with confidence, precision and style.
Think-n-Craft
Think-and-Craft is a 12-hour course designed to develop participants’ creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills. Through constructing a chair of their own from start to finish, participants receive the experience and confidence of bringing their imagination to life.
First, participants will learn the possibilities of form and function by conceptualizing a chair for themselves. Then, they will learn the process of design by drawing plans and making models. Next, they will learn the process of construction by building prototypes from pre-cut wood and painting them. Finally, they will present their work, bringing it home with confidence and joy.
Think-n-Design
Think-n-Design is a 12-hour module aimed at equipping students with the principles of design thinking to tackle real-world challenges.
The module begins by introducing the fundamentals of design thinking, emphasizing empathy and user-centered solutions. With a problem statement in hand, students will work in groups to brainstorm and prototype potential solutions. Throughout this process, they will harness technology, including artificial intelligence tools and multimedia resources, to enhance their presentations and articulate their ideas effectively.
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Participants will develop critical skills in research, collaboration, and creative thinking. They will learn to leverage diverse perspectives, fostering an environment of respect and inclusivity.
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Think-and-Design is offered in partnership with tramplus, the education arm and a sister company of Hong Kong Tramways which is a leading STEAM education hub.