What is Odyssey of the Mind?

"Odyssey of the Mind teaches young people to embrace changes. It instills in youngsters an excitement about learning and an excitement about themselves and their ability to achieve what others might say is impossible."

- Dr. C. Sam Micklus, Odyssey of the Mind Founder

Odyssey of the Mind (OotM) is the largest worldwide creative problem-solving competition for children. The program begins anew with each school year, when five “problems” are delivered to the mailboxes of anxiously waiting, creatively juiced kids. All participating teams are given the choice of the same five long term problems to solve, though these problems change from year to year. Part of the long term problem includes style which enhances the solution through costumes, props scenery, drama, etc. The nature of the problems incorporates the use of critical thinking skills and creativity. These divergent problems usually include a “vehicle” problem, a mechanical problem, a “classics” problem, a balsa wood structure problem and a strictly dramatic problem. The teams are also given spontaneous problems to solve the day of the state and world tournaments. Though teams may practice for this segment, they do

not know the problem ahead of time.

State and country association finals are held in March and April of each year, and the Odyssey of the Mind year culminates with World Finals, where the best of the best match wits, imaginations and personalities to become world champions.

What is the purpose of Odyssey of the Mind?

OotM’s mission is to foster the development of creative thinking and problem-solving skills. Importantly, OotM teaches that great minds don’t necessarily think alike– and often march to different drummers; that there are no right answers; that creative solutions come from teamwork, cooperation, and risk taking. Wouldn't you love to find that skill-set in a future employee?

Who participates in OotM?

Teams of students from kindergarten through college-age participate. All receive the same problems; however, their solutions vary – not simply because of age grouping but mostly due to the innovation and imagination of the creators.

Is OotM a school-based program?

It can be, but not always. Each team has a coach, who may be a parent, teacher or other interested adult. While most members are individual schools, home schoolers and community-based programs also participate. Additionally, OotM provides curriculum and other support materials for teachers who want to integrate OotM’s creative problem-solving techniques into daily classroom activities.

(a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation)

The Original and Largest Creative Problem-Solving Program in WV