6 THINKING HATS

By: Michelle Pantel Updated: September 2022

A teacher can use the 6 Thinking Hats method to encourage students to look at an issue from a specific perspective or a variety of perspectives. Edward De Bono created this method to support students in problem solving and clarifying their thinking. This method can be used in a variety of ways to suit the needs of the students as seen in this video.

There are 6 hats that students can put on to examine a problem or situation

White Hat

• neutral hat 

• focuses only on the facts and information given.

Black Hat

• judgement hat 

• plays devil's advocate and see where there might be problems or difficulties.

Blue Hat

• metacognition hat 

• manages the thinking and timing of the group, and keeps in mind the big picture.

Yellow Hat

• optimistic hat 

• only considers the positive benefits and keeps a very happy attitude.

Red Hat

• intuitive hat only 

• pays attention to the feelings and emotions of the problem or situation.

Green Hat

• creative hat 

• examines the possibilities, options, and new ideas

A hand-out can help students to write their notes when they are using the 6 Thinking Hats method.