The Science of Creativity

Catalog description

PSY 1500 The Science of Creativity (1/3 Unit; Cat. II) Are you fascinated by the ways in which artists and scientists reach creative breakthroughs? Ever wonder why you have aha! eureka moments in the shower? Do you wonder how you can improve your own creativity? This course is intended for anyone interested in understanding the science behind creativity. Creativity is considered one of the most sophisticated forms of human cognition and is used by both artists and scientists to push the frontier of knowledge and expression. This course will introduce students to the predominant theories and research findings from cognitive science on creativity, including theories of divergent and convergent thinking, flow experiences, and eureka moments of insight. This course mixes lectures with in-class activities to teach students the latest findings from creativity research and elaborate on these concepts through creative experiences inside and outside the classroom. Students who complete this course will gain a solid understanding of the theoretical frameworks of creativity and activities that promote creativity, apply class concepts to improve their creative problem-solving skills and leverage creative processes to their advantage to work on reaching their full creative potential. This course will be taught in 2025-26, and in alternating years thereafter. Recommended Background: None