The Quick thinker/Deep thinker continuum is quite simplistic compared to the complex models that incorporate perception and ordering or intake of information and processing preference. The benefit of a simple model is that it is easy to grasp and apply without spending a lot of time studying and exploring multiple models and concepts. Learning theory models have been around for many years, but in the business environment an incorporation of processing style or learning styles theory is virtually non-existent. The models take a while to grasp and it can be confusing to apply the information in a meaningful and useful way. In business, efficiency, expediency, and speed are values that are celebrated. In my experience, businesses generally require people to conform to the business culture rather than seeking to understand the learning/processing styes of employees and modifying the environment to benefit from the different strengths represented by the employee base. Learning and relationship theory might be touched on within the framework of business education or training sessions, but not to the same degree as systems and business processes. One of my goals is to see if a simpler model can coalesce the learning theory and possibly some personality theory into a model that can be applied and used to help inform problem solving and general meeting protocol for businesses and classroom facilitation; a model that will enable both quick thinkers and deep thinkers to engage and fully, competently participate. I have seen how this simple model, when shared with students in the classroom, has not only given deep thinkers a confidence to speak up for themselves in their business environments, it has helped both quick and deep thinkers begin to appreciate the benefits of both styles in a meeting or problem solving environment. The Quick thinkers are spontaneous, creative, and innovative on the spot and they keep the meeting moving forward. Deep thinkers are able to look at all the creative ideas and analyze what will work best in a certain situation, identify areas of weakness, and make recommendations that will minimize mistakes when implementing the recommendations. Both styles are necessary, important, and valuable.
After starting the research process, I have come to a number of conclusions.
- Quick/Deep thinker concepts are imbedded in many Learning Style theories.
- Creating a linear Quick/Deep thinker continuum may be a bit simplistic, but useful.
- Learning theory models tend to be utilized within the academic community. Curriculum developers know how to find and utilize the theories, however, the layperson who could benefit from the information may not be aware of it.
- Some learning style theory descriptions are visually appealing and concise, however, unless you are an academic or curriculum designer, they may still be too complex for everyday use. Because of this, the information is not utilized by the general population to improve communication and interpersonal relationships on the job.
- The theory I am developing is not a new totally new idea that has never been explored. It may actually be more of a simplification, modification of a concept, re-packaging, marketing and utilization issue.
