Assumption Smashing

Assumptions include things that we take for granted, beliefs accepted as true without proof, and ideas that are steadfastly defended. Deep-seated assumptions develop subconsciously over time as we interact with the world. Later, they can exert a profound influence on how we interpret all of the information collected through the senses and affect all of our human interactions. Some assumptions turn out to be spot-on; others are counterintuitive and simply make no sense.

From an evolutionary perspective, assumptions enable us to react quickly to events. When we are driving and a ball rolls into the street, we assume a child will follow and automatically apply the breaks. From a social perspective, assumptions establish boundaries to conversations and in so doing prevent them from becoming unwieldy. Unfortunately, this is also why assumptions can be problematical. Left unchallenged, they can limit open discussion and strangle the search for creative solutions.

Smashing Assumptions is an approach that challenges preconceived ideas or beliefs. The goals of the Assumption Smashing strategy are to help students discover how assumptions can limit creativity and act as barriers to change, learn how to identify personal assumptions and reduce their impact on open conversation, and how to adopt opposite assumptions to stimulate creative, divergent thinking.

Implementation

 

1. Select several engaging examples to illustrate how Smashing Assumptions can enhance communication and the problem-solving process.
2. See Connect Evidence and Claims for more information on the general topic of Accountable Talk™.

 

Classroom Management

1. Discuss issues surrounding assumptions with students.

 

• Ask students to identify some of their own assumptions about a particular topic.
• Give examples of the beneficial and negative aspects of assumptions.

 

2. Talk about the possibility of temporarily suspending one’s beliefs or adopting the exact opposite assumption for a moment.

 

• Ask how doing this might affect a discussion.

 

3. Introduce the focus topic.

 

• Make a list of everything the class knows about the topic.
• Study the list and ask students to distinguish between factual statements and assumptions.

 

4. Now, do two things to see how these changes influence how the topic is perceived: drop the assumption entirely, adopt the exact opposite assumption.

5. Distribute other random topics to student groups. Ask them to repeat the process and prepare to describe their experience with the large group.

6. Suggested Formative Assessment: Use Changes In The Wind to assess the impact of learning about the Assumption Smashing technique.