The COrT Model
The essence of the CoRT (Cognitive Research Trust) Thinking Method developed by Edward De Bono is to focus attention directly on different aspects of thinking and issues.
The CoRT Thinking Model
Although not designed specifically for coaching, it provides a practical framework that coaches can use to facilitate and develop client thinking.
The framework comprises a set of tools for considering issues and problems from different perspectives.
The tools can be used to help clients to reflect upon and think about issues and challenges from different perspectives.
The model is explained in more detail below.
CoRT Tool | Description | Key Steps and Questions |
CAF:
Consider all Factors |
This tool is essentially related to action, decision, planning, judgement and the drawing of conclusions | · List all of the factors
· Consider each factor · What is the appropriate decision to be made? |
FIP:
First ImportantPpriorities |
FIP is a judgement tool. It is person, and/or situation specific and about picking out the most important ideas, factors, objectives and consequences | · What are the important matters involved?
· Which is the most important one to be considered? · Which one should be given priority? |
PMI:
Plus, Minus, Interesting |
This tool is designed to ensure that decision or commitment takes place after both sides of the matter have been considered and not before. The ‘I’ of PMI can be used as a tool in subsequent lessons: | · List all the plus points.
· List all the minus points. · List all the interesting points. · What is your decision after considering all the factors? |
APC:
Alternatives, Possibilities, Choices |
The APC tool aims to focus on exploring all the alternatives, choices, and possibilities – beyond the obvious | · What are the other alternatives which could solve the problem?
· What are the implications if every step is taken? · What is the best solution? |
CoRT Tool | Description | Key Steps and Questions |
OPV:
Other People’s Views |
This tool advocates the consideration of other people’s viewpoints to consciously and deliberately escape from one’s own point of view. | · Will this idea influence others?
· What are other people’s opinions on this matter? · Is your idea relevant? |
AGO:
Aims, Goals, Objectives |
This tool focuses on the intentions behind actions relating to purpose. In some situations, it is more appropriate to use aims rather than goals or objectives. The key here is to focus on purpose rather than reaction. | · What is the AGO of the plan?
· Will the proposed actions achieve the AGO? · How do I make sure that the AGO are achieved? |
C & S:
Consequence and Sequel |
This tool focuses looking ahead, to visualise the consequences of an action plan or decision. Attention is focused directly on the future. Immediate, short, medium and long-term consequences are examined by different groups. | · What are the long term effects?
· What are the risks I have to face? · To what extent would the new plan result in changes? |
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