Lateral thinking is a crucial skill in today’s fast-paced, problem-solving environment, especially in the realm of eLearning where creative solutions and innovative approaches are often the keys to success. Here are 7 tips to improve your lateral thinking skills in the digital learning space:

1. Embrace Unorthodox Learning Methods: Traditional learning methods might not always spark creative thought. Look for eLearning courses that use unconventional approaches to teaching like gamification, interactive scenarios, or problem-based learning.

2. Encourage Questioning: Instead of taking information at face value, adopt a questioning attitude. Delve deeper into subjects by asking “Why?” or “What if?” Often, this mindset leads to new perspectives and insights.

3. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness can clear mental clutter, allowing new ideas to surface. Dedicate time to meditation or mindfulness exercises that can help in achieving a state of openness and receptivity needed for lateral thinking.

4. Use Analogy and Metaphors: These literary tools are not just for poets. They can help understand complex concepts by relating them to more familiar situations, thus promoting lateral thought.

5. Engage in Brainstorming Sessions: Participate in or conduct brainstorming sessions where any and all ideas are welcomed. This can be done through online forums or during live eLearning workshops.

6. Restructure the Problem: Sometimes simply looking at the problem from a different angle can lead to an innovative solution. Try rephrasing it or breaking it down into smaller parts within the eLearning course material.

7. Take Breaks Between Sessions: The brain sometimes needs downtime for ideas to incubate and form connections. Short breaks during eLearning sessions can provide valuable distance from a problem, leading to lateral solutions upon returning.

By integrating these strategies into your eLearning routines, you’ll cultivate an environment ripe for the development of lateral thinking skills – invaluable both in online classrooms and real-world scenarios.