What is Odyssey of the Mind?
Odyssey of the Mind is an international creative problem-solving program that engages students in their learning by allowing their knowledge and ideas to come to life in an exciting, productive environment. Participants build self-confidence, develop life skills, create new friendships, and are able to recognize and explore their true potential. OotM proves that students can have fun while they learn.
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Innovative Problems that Teach CreativityOdyssey problems have challenged students to design mechanical dinosaurs, invent new factory machinery, build working vehicles, write a new chapter to Moby Dick, put a twist on classic artworks, turn Pandora’s Box into a video game, and so much more.
Since 1978, OotM problems have challenged students to go beyond conventional thinking and incorporate creative problem solving in learning. Creative Problem Solving is a skill that needs to be nurtured and developed. While a conventional education is important, learning to solve problems creatively and confidently gives them an important edge in their education and career goals. There is creativity inside each of us and OotM teaches how to tap into it so it can be applied to real-world problems. |
Pioneers in Education Standards… With a Twist
All OotM solutions require students to perform, not just the sciences, but the arts as well – whether it be set-building, costume-making, creating props, acting, singing, or playing an instrument. These skills are important to create a balanced education. Because they are doing something fun, students are eager to perform and develop self-confidence and public speaking skills along the way. Many participants credit their success to Odyssey of the Mind. Because different elements are involved within each problem, OotM brings together kids with varying interests that often form life-long friendships.
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Odyssey Experiences
“Odyssey gave me my future. I loved making the props and writing the scripts and performing so much that I went on to study Theatre in college. It instilled creativity and teamwork in me and now, as I hold my Bachelors of Arts in Theatre with a focus in stage management, I know that OotM helped me make that huge life decision.”
“Odyssey is an exciting opportunity that encourages creativity and cooperation in the students. It’s a great thing to see students actually getting excited about academics.” |