ABSTRACT
This chapter describes CoRT, named after the Cognitive Research Trust, established by Edward de Bono (1933–2021) in Cambridge, England. He originated the term “lateral thinking” and wrote 85 books with translations into 46 languages on thinking. An evaluation of two years of CoRT found differences in reading comprehension, arithmetic and logical reasoning (effect size 0.17) in the second year, but not in the first year. Another researcher found significant gains in social sciences and languages, but not in science or mathematics. Later studies found more positive results for CoRT, including in creative thinking. De Bono argues that the mind is pattern making and pattern using, but theoretical underpinnings are few. CoRT is divided into six sections (each of ten lessons), including Breadth, Creativity and Information and Feeling. De Bono also defines a number of Thinking Tools, including Lateral Thinking, and describes the famous “Six Thinking Hats”. Practice, groups, discussion, feedback, drawing and transfer are also discussed. Four examples of CoRT activity are described. Training for CoRT is described and current locations for training given. CoRT has been spread to a great many countries, many subjects, and higher education and the workplace. References and Bibliography conclude the chapter.
