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Odyssey of the Mind

Oklahoma Odyssey of the Mind logo image

OM stands for Odyssey of the Mind; Oklahoma Odyssey of the Mind (OK-OM) is a creative, problem-solving competition involving teams of 5 to 7 students. 

Problem Selection

The students select a problem from among five different problems to solve. The problems are designed for working in the arts, creative writing, physical science, technology, the humanities, and more.

Team Solution

As a team, students plan and work toward a solution to present within 8 minutes at competition.

Spontaneous Problem Challenge

At competition, teams also compete in a spontaneous problem, not known to the students or coaches ahead of time. This spontaneous problem is designed to challenge teams to “think on their feet.”

What are the major benefits of the OM program?

OM fosters group and individual creative problem-solving, which involves vital challenges and learning experiences such as developing trust, leadership, initiative, cooperation, and communication skills.

Supportive Team Environment

The members are encouraged to be supportive of each other as they take risks, offering unique ideas to solve the problem at hand.

Opportunities for Middle and High School Students

Odyssey of the Mind is at both the Middle School and High School level.

Program Goals

Odyssey of the Mind participants have opportunities to:

  • Develop creative thinking abilities

  • Increase students' ability to apply known principles and facts to “hands-on” situations

  • Improve communication skills

  • Learn how to use the creative problem-solving process

  • Develop and utilize the skills of all team members

  • Develop and use local resources

  • Develop and use research skills

  • Exercise and use higher-order thinking and critical thinking skills, especially analysis, synthesis, and evaluation

  • Have fun while learning all of these very important skills