Dr Edward de Bono's Direct Attention Thinking Tools (DATT)™

Summary

The transcript introduces Direct Attention Thinking Tools (DAT), created by Dr. Edward de Bono, which are designed to direct focus to specific areas of thinking. Examples include evaluating consequences, goals, and objectives—processes often done inadequately or overlooked. A key tool discussed is PMI (Plus/Minus/Interesting), which encourages a more comprehensive approach to decision-making by considering pros, cons, and intriguing aspects. The example of removing seats from a school bus illustrates how PMI helps students explore ideas in depth, enhancing their thinking beyond the obvious.

Takeaways

• 🛠️ Direct Attention Thinking Tools (DAT) are designed to focus our attention on specific parts of the thinking process.
• 🎯 Many of these tools, like 'Consequences and Sequels' or 'Aims, Goals, and Objectives,' may seem natural but are often not done effectively.
• 🤔 Poor or incomplete use of these tools can lead to poor decision-making and regretful outcomes.
• ✅ PMI (Plus/Minus/Interesting) is one of the DAT tools, used to evaluate situations by listing positives, negatives, and interesting aspects.
• 🚌 Dr. Edward de Bono, the creator of this system, used an example with schoolchildren, asking them to do a PMI on removing seats from a school bus.
• 🟢 Under 'Plus,' the students mentioned benefits like having more space to play and interact with friends on the bus.
• 🔴 Under 'Minus,' the children recognized the potential danger of not having seats, such as being unsafe during sudden stops.
• 🔍 For 'Interesting,' one student questioned what would be done with all the seats if they were removed, showcasing curiosity about the outcomes.
• 💡 The 'Interesting' aspect in PMI adds depth and richness to our thinking, encouraging us to explore beyond just pros and cons.
• 📈 Direct Attention Thinking Tools help enhance our perspectives by expanding the way we consider options and outcomes.

Q & A

What are Direct Attention Thinking Tools (DAT)?

Direct Attention Thinking Tools (DAT) are a series of ten tools designed to direct attention to specific parts of thinking. They help focus on different aspects of a situation to enhance decision-making and problem-solving.

Why is it important to use tools like DAT even if some seem natural?

Although some tools, like considering consequences and goals, may seem natural, they are often done poorly or overlooked. Using DAT ensures thorough thinking and helps avoid decisions that may lead to regret in the future.

What is CNS in the context of the video?

CNS stands for Consequences and Sequels, which is one of the Direct Attention Thinking Tools. It encourages individuals to consider the long-term outcomes of their decisions.

What does PMI stand for in the DAT system?

PMI stands for Plus, Minus, and Interesting. It is a tool used to evaluate the positive aspects, negative aspects, and interesting implications of a situation or idea.

How did the children respond to the 'Plus' aspect of removing seats from a school bus?

In the 'Plus' aspect, the children suggested that removing the seats would allow them to play with their friends, run around the bus, and have fun.

What were the 'Minus' points the children identified about removing the bus seats?

For the 'Minus' aspect, the children noted that removing the seats would make it unsafe, as sudden braking could cause everyone to fly forward.

What was one of the 'Interesting' points raised about removing the seats from the bus?

One of the children raised an 'Interesting' point by asking what they would do with all the seats if they were removed from the bus.

Why does the 'Interesting' category add value to the thinking process?

The 'Interesting' category adds value by prompting unique, creative thoughts that might otherwise be overlooked when only focusing on the positives and negatives. It encourages a deeper exploration of the situation.

How does the use of DAT improve decision-making and perspective?

DAT improves decision-making by offering structured ways to analyze different aspects of a situation, helping individuals think more deeply and comprehensively, and thus make better-informed choices.

Who invented the Direct Attention Thinking Tools (DAT) system?

The DAT system was invented by Dr. Edward de Bono, a well-known thinker who developed many frameworks for improving thinking and creativity.