The process of creative problem-solving (CPS) commonly demands that individuals consciously or unconsciously integrate creative ideas from a vast array of diverse information. Using a masked priming paradigm and the Chinese remote associates test (RAT), this study provides innovative behavioral evidence for the integration of multiple unconscious…

There is broad agreement among executives on the importance of innovation and creativity in organizations. The paper aimed to provide information on the effectiveness of a new cognitive style inventory, the Productive-Reproductive Thinking Inventory (P-R), in identifying people with creative problem-solving potential. Participants completed the…

Many innovations in organizations result when people discover insightful solutions to problems. Insightful problem-solving was considered by Gestalt psychologists to be associated with productive, as opposed to re-productive, thinking. Productive thinking is characterized by shifts in perspective which allow the problem solver to consider new,…

Earthquakes, lightning, and history-changing ideas are classic examples of powerful, unpredictable forces of nature. These sorts of phenomena have been difficult to explain and predict, an often frustrating fact as humans try to understand and control the significant influences in our lives. Historically, such phenomena have been attributed to…

Described an instrument for developing ideas which will enable organizations to work out creative solutions to problems and issues. (Author/RK)

Shows the relationship between certain personality variables and resistance to the effects of frustration on creativity, and shows the combined effects of personality and emotional stress on creative productivity. (Author)

The intent of this article is to explain the use of problem-solving as a curriculum theme in nursing education. (Author)

The article discusses the concept of inspiration as a component of creativity, including environmental influences, affective self-awareness, effective verbal communication to preserve inspired experiences, and the role of humor. The creative problem-solving process is also addressed, with attention to divergent thinking strategies and the practice…

This article reviews the history of divergent thinking tests and provides a projection of current research suggesting a bright outlook for creativity tests. A model relating problem finding and problem solving is described, as are approaches to increasing test reliability. (DB)

The discovery of penicillin is cited in a discussion of the role of serendipity as it relates to scientific discovery. The importance of sagacity as a personality trait is noted. Successful researchers have questioning minds, are willing to view data from several perspectives, and recognize and appreciate the unexpected. (JW)

Differences in cognitive and interpersonal characteristics between good problem solvers and good problem posers (inventors) were examined with 35 ninth graders. Good problem posers were more field independent and had a more positive self image than problem solvers. (DB)

This study examined how experienced teachers use their complex knowledge structure to find and solve problems in the classroom. Of 30 teachers and teacher trainees, the experienced teachers imposed an experiential structure on lesson content, spent less time planning, and focused on general concerns rather than specific problems. (PB)