Flex-based Learning

A New Approach to Scientific Creativity in Schools

How can we turn schools into hubs of innovation and creative problem-solving? The Flex-Based Learning (FBL) program, developed by Wolfgang Aschauer and Kurt Haim, aims to do just that. Designed for STEM subjects, FBL nurtures scientific creativity by promoting divergent thinking, metacognition, and problem-solving skills. This approach transforms traditional classrooms into dynamic think tanks and maker spaces where students develop the skills they need to solve real-world challenges.

The Power of Scientific Creativity

Creativity isn’t just for the arts, it’s an essential part of science education. FBL is built on the belief that students learn best when they generate hypotheses, test ideas, and explore multiple solutions. The program strengthens both domain-specific knowledge and general creative competencies, making learning more engaging and meaningfull

Unlocking Divergent Thinking

To solve complex problems, students need both convergent and divergent thinking. While convergent thinking helps find one correct answer, divergent thinking explores multiple possibilities. FBL develops fluency (number of ideas), flexibility (variety of ideas), and originality (uniqueness of ideas), ensuring students can think outside the box.

Teaching Creativity Through Fun and Engaging Methods

FBL introduces several exciting techniques to boost creative thinking:

> Shorty & Flexy: Two imaginary characters help students reflect on their thought processes. Shorty represents routine thinking, while Flexy encourages creative exploration.

> Thinkflex: Encourages students to view problems from different perspectives, fostering curiosity and adaptability.

> Flexperiments: Open-ended science experiments that promote trial-and-error learning, encouraging students to embrace mistakes as part of the creative process.

> Clustering & WoSeCo: Techniques that train students to structure ideas, improve verbal fluency, and make original associations between concepts.

Why FBL Works: Research-Backed Results

More than 2000 students have participated in FBL intervention studies, and the results are clear, students who engage in FBL significantly improve their creative problem-solving abilities. Even a modest integration of FBL (around 20% of class time) leads to noticeable improvements in creative thinking and innovation.

How Do Students and Teachers Feel About FBL?

The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Students enjoy the freedom to experiment, think creatively, and tackle real-world problems. Educators appreciate that FBL is flexible, adaptable, and easy to implement, with well-structured worksheets that guide students through the creative process. Some of the most common teacher feedback includes:

“Students came up with unexpected and brilliant ideas!”

“FBL increased students' motivation and engagement.”

“I plan to continue using Thinkflex to enhance creativity in my classroom.”

From Classroom to Changemakers

FBL isn’t just about learning, it’s about empowering students to become innovators and problem-solvers. Programs like the Club of Creative Solutions integrate FBL principles into real-world sustainability challenges, teaching students design thinking, teamwork, and project management.

Final Thoughts: Transforming Schools into Innovation Hubs

Flex-Based Learning isn’t just a teaching method, it’s a mindset shift. By fostering scientific creativity, metacognition, and problem-solving, FBL prepares students to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. Whether you’re a teacher looking for fresh classroom strategies or an educator eager to promote innovation, FBL offers a research-backed, practical approach to creativity in STEM education.