Clustering

Clustering (sometimes also known as ‘branching’ or ‘mapping’) is a structured technique based on the same associative principles as brainstorming and listing.

Clustering procedures vary considerably, although the fundamental objective is to equip students with tools for arranging words, phrases, concepts, memories, and propositions triggered by a single stimulus (i.e., a piece of information, a topic, a provocative question, a metaphor, a visual image). As with other [invention] techniques, clustering should first be modelled and practiced in class so students can eventually incorporate the tool into their own repertoire of invention and planning strategies (Ferris, Hedgcock, 2005[i] and Osborne, 1953[ii]). Suitable for small and large groups.

• facilitate sharing of information
• determine connections or patterns between various facts and statements;
• assemble, group or categorise similar information;

Students can be creative and visually represent the clusters, patterns and connections using doodles, concept mapping etc. and using colours. Darken and thicken lines that make connections that seem important, or circles that seem like they are turning into centres of gravity.

Groups create elaborate pieces like art spirals, posters, and so on. They can be invited to write a phrase or sentence that captures some of their ideas about the topic of the cluster.

Groups present their clusters.

Groups discuss the presented clusters.

Example of Cluster creation procedure:

• Tell students that they are going to use a tool that will enable them to write more easily and more powerfully, a tool similar to brainstorming.
• Encircle a word on the board–for example, ‘Fibromyalgia’–and ask students to cluster the word for themselves. Before they begin, tell them that the clustering process should take no more than one or two minutes and that the paragraph they will write should take about eight minutes. Ask them to keep clustering until the “Aha!” shift, signalling that their mind is holding something they can shape into a whole.
• After they finish writing, ask students to give a ’title’ to what they have written that is suggestive of the whole.

Clustering is a generative, open-ended, non-linear, visual structuring of ideas, events, feelings. It is a way of mapping an interior landscape as it begins to emerge.

• The result is fast, intuitive and easily interpretable.
• Such presentations aid memorisation, recall and exam preparation.
• Useful for highly visual or tactile-kinesthetic learners.

• Can be chaotic, unfocused and intimidating.
• Can take too much time if the group is not properly controlled.

·         Participants might find it difficult to visualize or picture a particular problem, concept or project.

Here you will find examples of brainstorming and examples & strategies for clustering.

Basic rules make the brainstorming process meaningful and effective. Here are some creative brainstorming exercises and techniques to help enhance problem-solving skills.