Cognitive Research Trust (CoRT)
The Cognitive Research Trust (CoRT) is an educational program developed by Edward de Bono in 1973 to teach thinking skills. The CoRT program aims to enhance cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills by providing a structured approach to thinking and decision-making.
Key features of the CoRT program include:
Six thinking “hats”: A technique that encourages looking at problems from different perspectives, represented by six colored hats (white for facts, red for emotions, black for caution, yellow for optimism, green for creativity, and blue for process control).
Lateral thinking: Emphasizing creative problem-solving by approaching issues from unconventional angles.
PMI (Plus, Minus, Interesting): A tool for evaluating ideas by considering positive, negative, and interesting aspects.
CAF (Consider All Factors): A method for comprehensive analysis by identifying all relevant factors in a situation.
C&S (Consequences and Sequel): A technique for anticipating short-term and long-term outcomes of decisions.
APC (Alternatives, Possibilities, Choices): A strategy for generating and exploring multiple options.
The CoRT program is designed to be applicable across various subjects and age groups, from elementary school to adult education. It has been implemented in schools worldwide and is also used in business and organizational settings to improve decision-making and innovation processes.
While the CoRT program has gained popularity for its structured approach to teaching thinking skills, its effectiveness has been debated in educational research, with some studies showing positive outcomes and others questioning its long-term impact.