HBDI MODEL – DISCOVER YOUR THINKING STYLE

 

1. Basic Information

Method Title: Discover Your Thinking Style with the HBDI Model

Author / Organisation: Akademie für Politische Bildung und demokratiefördernde Maßnahmen

Country: Serbia

Original Project: BACID // Change your mind // Citizen in Charge

Theme / Topic: Entrepreneurship; Personal Development; Teamwork; Innovation

Keywords / Tags: HBDI, thinking styles, self-reflection, entrepreneurship, teamwork, innovation, communication, leadership

CIVIKI Pillars

Primary Pillar: Entrepreneurship Education

Secondary Pillars: Critical Thinking; Interdisciplinary Learning

 

2. Overview

Short Description

This reflective learning activity introduces participants to the HBDI (Herrmann Brain Dominance Instrument) model as a framework for understanding different thinking preferences. Through self-reflection and collaborative activities, participants explore how different thinking styles influence communication, teamwork, creativity and entrepreneurial decision-making.

 

Purpose of the Method

To help participants recognise different thinking preferences and understand how cognitive diversity contributes to effective collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurship.

 

Learning Outcomes

Participants:

  • become familiar with the four HBDI thinking preferences;
  • reflect on their own preferred approaches to thinking and problem-solving;
  • recognise the strengths of different thinking styles;
  • improve teamwork and communication;
  • understand how diverse perspectives support innovation and entrepreneurial thinking.

 

3. Target Group

Target Group: Adult learners, entrepreneurs, trainers, educators, volunteers and community groups.

 

Age Range: 18+

Group Size: 8–25 participants

Required Prior Knowledge: No previous knowledge required.

 

4. Practical Details

Duration: 60–90 minutes. The reflection time can be adjusted depending on the needs of the group.

Setting (online / offline / hybrid): Offline, online or hybrid

Group Work / Individual: Combination of individual reflection, pair work and group discussion.

Materials / Tools Needed:

  • HBDI quadrant descriptions
  • Reflection worksheet
  • Flipchart
  • Sticky notes
  • Markers
  • Presentation slides

 

5. Method Description (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Introduction to the HBDI Model

The facilitator introduces the HBDI model and explains its four thinking preferences:

  • Analytical – logical, factual and data-oriented thinking. For example, an analytical thinker may compare facts, costs or data before making a decision.
  • Organised – structured, detailed and planning-oriented thinking. For example, an organised thinker may create a step-by-step plan or schedule before starting a task.
  • Interpersonal – empathetic, communicative and people-oriented thinking. For example, an interpersonal thinker may first consider how a decision will affect other people.
  • Imaginative – creative, holistic and innovative thinking. For example, an imaginative thinker may quickly develop new ideas or think of alternative solutions.

It is emphasised that everyone uses all four thinking styles to varying degrees and that the model serves as a tool for reflection rather than assessment.

 

Step 2: Short Icebreaker

Before the self-reflection activity, the facilitator introduces a short icebreaker related to different ways of thinking. Participants can briefly consider how they usually approach a simple problem or decision and share their first reaction with the group.

 

Step 3: Self-Reflection and Pair Exchange

Participants review the descriptions of the four thinking styles and first work individually. They reflect on which preferences best describe their own approach in everyday life or work and record examples illustrating their strengths and preferred ways of working.

After the individual reflection, participants discuss their reflections in pairs.

The time for reflection can be adjusted depending on the needs of the group.

 

Step 4: Group Exchange

In small groups, participants discuss their reflections and consider how different thinking styles complement one another in teamwork. The facilitator encourages discussion about the advantages of cognitive diversity.

 

Step 5: Collaborative Challenge

Groups complete a short problem-solving activity or planning exercise (e.g. developing a community initiative or entrepreneurial idea). Participants reflect on how each thinking style contributed to the process.

 

Step 6: Reflection and Transfer

The session concludes with a reflection on how awareness of different thinking preferences can improve communication, leadership, collaboration and innovation in professional and community settings.

 

6. Pedagogical Approach

Methods used

  • Guided self-reflection
  • Individual reflection
  • Pair exchange
  • Collaborative learning
  • Group discussion
  • Scenario-based learning
  • Experiential learning

 

Why this approach is effective

The activity promotes self-awareness while encouraging participants to appreciate different ways of thinking. By recognising cognitive diversity as a strength, participants improve teamwork, communication and collaborative problem-solving.

 

7. Inclusion & Accessibility

How inclusion is ensured

The method values diverse perspectives and learning preferences. Activities encourage equal participation and recognise that there is no “best” thinking style.

 

Adaptations for disadvantaged groups

Use simplified language.

Provide visual descriptions of the four thinking styles.

Allow sufficient reflection time and adjust it to the needs of the group.

Encourage mixed-experience groups.

Allow participants to work individually before discussing their reflections with others.

 

8. Sustainability Aspect

Although the method does not directly address environmental sustainability, it supports sustainable collaboration by promoting inclusive teamwork, respectful communication and appreciation of diverse perspectives. These competencies strengthen long-term cooperation in entrepreneurship, community initiatives and civic engagement.

 

9. Evaluation & Feedback

Evaluation Methods

  • Reflection worksheet
  • Observation of participation
  • Group discussion
  • Collaborative exercise

 

Tools Used

  • Self-reflection
  • Peer feedback
  • Facilitator observation

 

10. Output / Result

Final Outcome

Participants develop a better understanding of their own thinking preferences and recognise how different cognitive approaches contribute to effective teamwork, innovation and entrepreneurial activities.

 

11. Transferability

The method can be used in entrepreneurship education, adult education, leadership development, project management, community initiatives and team-building activities. It can also serve as an introductory activity before project work or collaborative problem-solving exercises.

 

12. Additional Resources

Links / Files / Tools