Five Whys? (5Y’s)

Description

Five Whys? is a simple process of asking the question Why? repeatedly in order to detect the root cause or meaning of a particular problem or situation. It can be used any time a human factor is present, when people do not truly understand a situation or when a deeper understanding is necessary. The 5Y’s causes people to use higher order thinking skills, encourages the finding of the true meaning of a situation and causes people to challenge the current problem.

Procedure

1. Identify a problem, situation or concept to be examined.

2. Ask Why? this particular condition exists.

3. Each time the question Why? is answered, ask Why? once again.

4. Continue to ask Why? until everyone is satisfied they have arrived at the root cause of the issue.

Link to Outcomes

Students recognise when and what information is needed, locate and obtain it from a range of sources and evaluate, share and use it with others.

Dynamic Strategies

Motivation/Negotiation

Thinking and Reasoning Skills

Decision making, planning, drawing conclusions, making judgments

Five Whys? (5Y’s)

Problem

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