Investigated systematic problem solving with 52 elementary school students. The experimental group (N=26) received Galvin Alternative Intervention Network (GAIN) training. Results indicated the GAIN program was effective in facilitating problem solving. Students' responses were unique and constituted creative behavior. (JAC)

This booklet introduces the SM-14 (Scientific Method) Formula and lists characteristics of the scientific method. A history and progression of the scientific method is also featured. Contents include: (1) The Basic Principles of the Scientific Method; (2) Submitting Ideas Incorporating SM-14; (3) The 11 Stages of the SM-14 Formula and Famous…

Describes the State-of-Illinois supported Cooperative Summer Institute of McKendree College, Lebanon, Illinois, which participated in a week-long Creative-Problem Solving Institute at the State University College in Buffalo, New York. (MB)

An anecdote shows why children studying mathematics should be given freedom to explore, generalize, classify, and originate proofs. (RS)

The Program for Academic and Creative Enrichment (PACE) is a pull-out program for gifted elementary students. It is implemented by resource teachers working on a three stage model to develop basic thinking, critical thinking and problem solving, independent study, and research skills. (CL)

The author reviews research and theory about the role of incubation (a period in which there is no apparent activity toward problem solving but some progress toward a solution occurs) in creative thinking. Note: For related information, see EC 120 233-238. (CL)

Four studies of undergraduates were conducted to assess the relative importance of quality and quantity as goals of brainstorming. Participants (n=65) believed it was more important to produce creative and high-quality ideas than to generate many ideas and believed brainstorming would enhance the quality of others' ideas (n=109). (Author/CR)

In this second article of a series, the first three stages of the CPS (Creative Problem Solving) process are described and several facilitation techniques that can be used in each stage are discussed. The three stages discussed (Mess-Finding, Data-Finding, and Problem-Finding) each involve a creative thought and a critical thought phase. (JDD)

The article describes four step-by-step methods to sharpen intuitive capacities for problem-solving and innovation. Visionary and transpersonal knowledge processes are tapped to gain access to relatively deep levels of intuition. The methods are considered useful for overcoming internal blockages or resistance, developing organizational mission…

Profiles "Odyssey of the Mind," an international competition that challenges students, kindergarten through college, to find creative solutions to bizarre problems. The unique design competition demands creative problem-solving, teamwork, and understanding of basic principles to complete projects that last for several months. (LZ)

The ability to develop new problem descriptions, called problem restructuring in architectural design, has been related to creativity. Looking at human creativity through problem restructuring is likely to offer more research results and questions and can benefit understanding of the role of creativity in professional practice and related decision…

Creativity is valued increasingly in business and education. Humor, fun, and play take the brain from a cognitive, rule-bound state to a more fluid state where the whole body can work on a problem while the "thinking mind" is relaxed. Vignettes demonstrate how adventure education stimulates creativity through play, fun, humor, and…

Reviews studies on the cognitive mechanisms underlying creative thought and proposes a general model. This model holds that creative thought involves interactions among a number of distinct cognitive components. Some of the implications of this model for the design of effective educational programs are discussed. (Author/CR)

Takes a look at what creativity is and where it goes as people age. Describes six exercises the author has used to spark creativity in middle school and high school students, both in the classroom and on stage. (SR)