Episode 71: Decoding Thinking Styles — The Intrigue of Concurrent and Consecutive Thinking

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Foreign welcome to another episode of K12 Education Untangled. My name is Dr. Kim Fields, former corporate manager turned educational researcher and advocate, and I'm the host of this podcast. I got into this space after dealing with some frustrating interactions with school educators and administrators, as well as experiencing the microdiscriminations that I faced as an African American mom raising my two kids who were in the public school system. I really wanted to understand how teachers were trained and what the research provided about the challenges of the public education system. Once I gained the information and the insights that I needed, I was then equipped to be able to successfully support my children in their educational progress. If you're looking to find out more about current information and issues in education that could affect you or your children, then you're in the right place. Thanks for tuning in today. I know that staying informed about K12 education trends and topics is is important to you, so keep listening. On today's episode, I'll be sharing my thoughts on the differences between consecutive thinking and concurrent thinking. Here's why I started thinking about the differences in concurrent thinking versus Consecutive thinking. My husband is currently tasked with preparing my meals. For some odd reason, it takes him about an hour to put together a 15 minute meal. My meal plan for dinner in the summers is pretty simple. A protein source, typically some type of meat and a salad. Instead of constantly being annoyed and wondering wtf? As to why it takes that long to prepare and serve a 15 minute meal, I decided to take the higher road to consider whether it was a thinking process issue. As I observed him emptying the dishwasher, clearing the dishes from the dish drainer, washing dishes, taking out the trash, and setting his video channel on his cell phone before even starting to prepare the salad. Oddly, none of those previous tasks has anything to do with getting food on the table. I contemplated whether he was a consecutive thinker. This is the backstory to today's thought sharing episode about these two types of thinking patterns. Thinking consecutively typically refers to the process of thinking in a linear or sequential manner where one thought or idea follows another in a logical and ordered sequence. It involves a step by step approach to problem solving or decision making. When you think consecutively, you consider each idea, option or step one at a time, often in a structured and organized fashion. Consecutive thinking can be thought of as the lower level of concurrent thinking. It seems that it's easier to reason sequentially than to understand situations where many things occur simultaneously. While humans are basically parallel processors in which we process concurrently, we live in a world where multiple things happen at the same time, and so reasoning by reduction to a sequential world seems to simplify the world for those who think consecutively. This type of thinking is contrasted with thinking concurrently or thinking in parallel, where multiple thoughts or ideas are processed simultaneously, often in a more holistic or interconnected way. Thinking consecutively can be helpful in situations where you need to analyze information in a structured manner, follow a logical argument, or make decisions by weighing the pros and cons of different options. It's a common mode of thinking in many aspects of everyday life, from solving math problems to planning out a series of tasks. It's interesting to note that according to the research, thinking consecutively or sequentially is not inherently tied to a specific gender. Both men and women are capable of thinking consecutively. Cognitive processes and thinking styles are influenced by a complex interplay of various factors including biology, upbringing, education, culture, and individual personality. Individuals may have unique thinking styles and approaches that are shaped by their individual experiences, interests, and cognitive abilities rather than their gender. Therefore, it may be more appropriate to consider the specific characteristics, experiences, and context of an individual rather than making generalizations about gender. Regardless of what the research has indicated, my experience is that sequential thinking tends to occur more often for men than for mothers. Shout out to mothers Individuals who tend to think consecutively or sequentially often exhibit certain characteristics in their thinking and problem solving processes. These characteristics 1. A step by step Approach People who think consecutively tend to break down complex problems or tasks into smaller, manageable steps. They focus on completing one step before moving on to the next, creating a linear and structured progression. 2. Logical reasoning sequential thinkers often rely on logical reasoning and cause and effect relationships to make decisions. They follow a logical flow of thought and are less likely to jump to conclusions without evidence. 3. Attention to detail Consecutive thinkers often are detail oriented. They pay close attention to specifics and nuances, ensuring that nothing important is overlooked during their thought process. 4. Planning and organization Sequential thinkers are good at planning and organizing their thoughts, tasks and schedules. They may create lists, outlines, or charts to help them stay on track. 5. Time management they are often effective at managing their time because they allocate it to each step and task in a systematic manner, reducing the likelihood of procrastination or distraction. 6. Precision in communication Consecutive thinkers tend to communicate their ideas clearly and logically, making it easier for others to follow their thought process. 7. Risk assessment they may carefully evaluate the potential risks and consequences associated with each decision or action before proceeding. This cautious approach can be valuable in certain situations. 8. Preference for structured Environments Some sequential thinkers feel more comfortable and productive in structured, organized environments where they can follow routines and establish procedures. 9. Strong problem solving Skills Their methodical approach often leads to effective problem solving because they thoroughly analyze and consider all relevant factors before arriving at a solution. It's important to note that not everyone thinks exclusively in a consecutive manner, and thinking styles can be flexible and adapt to different situations. Some people may combine sequential thinking with other thinking styles, such as holistic or creative thinking, depending on the context and the problem they are facing. Based on the characteristics that I've just described, it may be that my husband is not a consecutive thinker because five of the nine points don't describe him at all. Well, I guess it's back to the drawing board for me. In any case, people are complex and their thinking styles can vary based on a range of factors. Beyond these characteristics, thinking consecutively or in a sequential manner can be advantageous in various situations where a structured and step by step approach approach is needed. Here are five examples. 1. Math problem solving when solving complex mathematical equations or problems, thinking consecutively can help break down the problem into smaller, more manageable steps. This approach allows you to work through each part systematically, reducing the likelihood of errors. 2. Cooking or baking Following a recipe is a consecutive thinking task. You need to go through the instructions step by step to ensure you add the right ingredients in the right order and cook or bake the dish to perfection. 3. Technical troubleshooting in fields like IT or engineering, troubleshooting, technical issues often requires a sequential approach. You identify the problem symptoms and then work methodically through potential causes and solutions one by one until you find the source of the issue. 4. Project Management Managing complex projects involves a series of tasks and dependencies. Thinking consecutively helps project managers plan and execute tasks in the right order, ensuring that the project progresses smoothly and on schedule. 5. Legal Analysis Legal professionals such as lawyers and judges often engage in consecutive thinking when analyzing legal cases. They review evidence, apply relevant laws, and consider precedents step by step to make informed legal decisions. In these scenarios, thinking consecutively allows for a structured and organized approach, which can lead to more accurate problem solving, better decision making, and reduced room for error. It is especially useful when tasks involve a clear sequence of steps or when it's essential to follow established procedures and protocols. Now let's look at concurrent thinking. There is such a thing as a theory of concurrent thinking. The theory explains that concurrent thinking is thinking of multiple things at the same time, in other words, doing more than one mental activity as well as processing more than one task at a time. A person's thinking pattern is their preferred method of arranging and organizing information, and this may involve the use of various thinking patterns based on different tasks and conditions. This theory focuses on multiple conscious mental processes at the same time with high proficiency. Thinking concurrently, also known as parallel thinking, is a cognitive process in which a person considers multiple thoughts, ideas, or perspectives simultaneously. Unlike consecutive or sequential thinking, where one thought follows another in a linear fashion, concurrent thinking involves holding and processing multiple concepts at once. This approach allows individuals to explore various facets of a problem or situation concurrently, leading to a more holistic and interconnected understanding. Key Characteristics of concurrent thinking 1. Multidimensional perspective concurrent thinkers examine a problem or situation from different angles and consider multiple variables and factors simultaneously. They can see the interrelationships between various elements. 2. A synthesis of information Instead of analyzing information step by step, concurrent thinkers integrate information from various sources or perspectives to form a comprehensive view. 3. Creativity and innovation Concurrent thinkers often promote creativity and innovation in their thought processes because it encourages the exploration of diverse ideas and connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. 4. Rapid idea generation People who think concurrently can generate ideas quickly as they are not limited to one thought at a time. This can be valuable in brainstorming sessions and problem solving scenarios. 5. Reduced cognitive load Concurrent thinking can be more efficient in certain situations because it reduces the need to backtrack or reevaluate previous steps in the linear thought process. 6. Systems think thinking Concurrent thinkers often excel at systems thinking, which involves understanding how different parts of a system interact and affect one another, and seven Flexibility and adaptability. This thinking style allows individuals to adapt to changing circumstances more readily as they can adjust their focus and consider new information without disrupting their thought process. It is important to note that both consecutive or sequential thinking and concurrent or parallel thinking have their advantages and are suitable for different situations. The choice of thinking style depends on the nature of the problem or the task at hand. In some cases, a sequential approach may be more appropriate for a structured step by step task, while concurrent thinking may be better suited for complex interconnected issues or creative endeavors. People often use the combination of both thinking styles depending on the context and their own cognitive preferences. People of both genders are capable of thinking concurrently, sequentially, or using combination of different thinking styles depending on the context and their personal preferences. It is more productive to consider this specific characteristics and cognitive preferences of each person rather than attributing these to their gender alone. Individuals who tend to think concurrently often exhibit specific characteristics in their thinking and problem solving processes. These characteristics include 1. Multitasking Concurrent thinkers are adept at handling multiple tasks, ideas or perspective simultaneously. They can switch between lines of thought or task without losing focus. 2. Holistic perspective they take a holistic view of a situation, considering how various elements and factors interact and influence each other. This approach can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of complex issues.

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Creativity concurrent thinking often fosters creativity because it encourages the exploration of diverse ideas and the ability to make connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. 4. Quick idea generation these individuals can generate ideas rapidly since they're not limited to considering one thought at a time. This can be valuable in brainstorming in problem solving sessions. 5. Adaptability Concurrent thinkers are flexible and adaptable, which allows them to adjust their focus and consider new information or perspectives easily. This adaptability is valuable in dynamic and changing environments. 6. Systems thinking they excel at systems thinking, which involves understanding the relationships and interdependencies among various components within the system. 7. Visual thinking concurrent thinkers may use visual aids like diagrams, mind maps or flowcharts to represent complex information, which helps them see connections and relationships more clearly. 8. Open mindedness they're often open to exploring different viewpoints and considering alternative solutions to problems, which can lead to innovative and unconventional ideas. 9. Efficiency in certain circumstances, concurrent thinking can be more efficient because it allows for parallel processing of information, reducing the need to backtrack and revisit previous steps and 10. Adaptive problem solving they can adapt their problem solving approach based on the specific characteristics of the problem, choosing between concurrent or sequential thinking as needed. Again, it is important to note have.

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Conclusion that individuals vary in their thinking preferences and some people naturally gravitate toward concurrent thinking in certain situations while using sequential thinking in others. The choice of thinking style often depends on the nature of the task, personal preferences, and the individual's cognitive abilities. Additionally, people can develop and enhance their thinking skills over time through practice and experience. Thinking concurrently can be advantageous in various situations where a more holistic and interconnected approach is needed. Here are five examples. 1. Innovation and creativity when brainstorming ideas or trying to innovate, thinking concurrently allows individuals to consider multiple perspectives, explore diverse concepts simultaneously, and make unexpected connections between seemingly unrelated ideas. This then can lead to innovative solutions and creative breakthroughs. 2. Strategic planning in strategic planning, thinking concurrently enables organizations to consider various factors such as market trends, competitive analysis, and internal strengths and weaknesses all at once. This holistic perspective helps informing comprehensive and effective strategic plans.

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Design and art Artists and designers often employ concurrent thinking to envision their creations. They can simultaneously consider color schemes, composition, texture, and other design elements to produce aesthetically pleasing and harmonious work. 4. Complex problem solving when dealing with multifaceted and interconnected problems, concurrent thinking can be an advantage. It allows individuals to analyze different aspects of the problem simultaneously, making it easier to identify relationships and arrive at Comprehensive Solutions. 5. Medicine and health care healthcare professionals, especially during patient diagnosis, need to consider various symptoms, medical history, and potential causes concurrently. This approach helps in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning in these scenarios. Thinking concurrently fosters creativity, encourages a broader perspective, and helps people address complex and multifaceted challenges effectively. It's particularly beneficial when tasks involve interconnected elements or when innovative thinking and holistic understanding are essential. Finally, let's tie this back to my opening scenario. In a marriage or any close relationship, the fact that one spouse thinks concurrently while the other thinks consecutively doesn't necessarily present inherent advantages or disadvantages. What's crucial in such relationships is effective communication, understanding, and a willingness to complement each other's thinking styles. One thing is certain, men definitely have a different approach to solving problems around the house, including issues dealing with children than women too. Here are some of the advantages 1. Diverse perspectives having different thinking styles can provide a broader perspective on issues. Concurrent thinkers may bring creative and innovative ideas to the table, while consecutive thinkers can offer a structured and organized approach to problem solving. 2. Balanced decision making when both thinking styles are valued and respected, decisions can benefit from a balance between creativity and structure. This can lead to well informed choices that consider both the big picture and the finer details. 3. Complementary roles in certain situations, one thinking style may be more advantageous than the other, but concurrent thinkers might excel in brainstorming and idea generation, while consecutive thinkers may be better at implementing plans and ensuring tasks are completed step by step. Yet, there are potential disadvantages. 1. Communication challenges differences in thinking styles can lead to miscommunication or or misunderstandings. Concurrent thinkers may feel frustrated if they perceive consecutive thinkers as overly cautious or slow, while consecutive thinkers may find concurrent thinkers disorganized or scattered. Can I get an amen? 2. Conflict if not managed well, these differences in thinking styles can lead to conflict. One spouse might feel that their approach is not valued or understood, leading to tension in the relationship. To make the most of diverse thinking styles, couples can recognize and respect differences. They can acknowledge and appreciate each other's thinking styles. They can understand that both concurrent and consecutive thinking have their strengths and weaknesses. The couple can work on effective communication Fostering open and effective communication within a relationship is important. Look at how you can discuss each other's thinking style and how that thinking style can be an asset in various situations. The couple in the relationship can also think about collaboration. They can collaborate on tasks and decisions, drawing on the strengths of both thinking styles. For example, concurrent thinkers can contribute creative ideas, while consecutive thinkers can create plans to implement them. And last, the couple can look at allowing flexibility by being willing to adapt each other's thinking style to the situation. Sometimes it's beneficial to use a combination of both thinking styles, depending on the task at hand. In summary, the presence of different thinking styles in a marriage can be an asset if both spouses are aware of their strengths and weaknesses and work together to leverage these differences for the benefit of the relationship. Effective communication and mutual respect are key to making this dynamic work. As is the usual case for these personal thought sharing episodes where I close with either a clean joke or a quote. I submit this joke for your amusement. The title of the joke is the anatomy of disappointment. Mrs. Tyler, a science teacher in a fifth grade class, posed the following question to her students, which part of the human body expands eight times its size when stimulated? No one said anything until little Sarah jumped up and blurted out, you're not supposed to talk about that kind of stuff to us. I'm going to tell my parents and they're going to go straight to the principal. Unfazed By Sarah's protest, Mrs. Tyler repeated the question, which body part expands eight times its size when stimulated? Little Sarah's jaw dropped and she whispered to the kids nearby, oh wow, she's going to be in so much trouble. Disregarding Sarah's comments Once again, Mrs. Tyler addressed the class once more, hoping for a response. Finally, Cooper raises his hand and says, I think the body part that grows eight times when stimulated is the pupil in your eyes. Mrs. Tyler commended Cooper for his correct answer and then turned her attention to Sarah and said, I have three things to say to you, missy. One, you clearly didn't read your homework. Two, you need to get your mind out of the gutter. And three, one day you'll be incredibly disappointed. If this is the type of subject matter and discussion that resonates with you, please follow my podcast on whatever service you're listening to this. Also, I'd love to hear from you. So please leave me a rating, a review, or a comment on Apple or podchaser. If you like this podcast, the best way to support me and help me grow it is by leaving a review. This helps my rankings and entices other people to listen to the show and share this episode with anyone that you think would find it valuable. Be sure to tell your friends, family and community about my podcast. Additionally, you can reach out to me on Instagram and Facebook with the handle KimJ Fields. Thanks for listening today. I hope you'll come back for more K12 educational discussions with even more exciting topics to untangle. Be sure to stay tuned on the next episode. I'll be discussing the latest updates on Critical Race Theory. Until next time A To learn something new every day.

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