Practical Creative Problem Solving – How to generate more and better ideas in less time

As scientists, we are well-trained, persistent analytical problem solvers. However, even the most trained problem solvers repeatedly encounter tricky problems where they are at a loss with their analytical toolset and seek for creative solutions. Unfortunately, the trouble is that most of us have forgotten how to tap into our creative potential along our way from kindergarden to university.

In this 1-day course, you will relearn how to unlock your creativity. We will explore tools and techniques for fostering individual and group creativity. Participants will be encouraged to synthesize existing ideas, concepts, and skill sets in original ways, embrace ambiguity and support divergent thinking and risk taking. We will also have a look at types of roadblocks for creative problem solving – and how we can remove them.

Using a variety of short lessons, experiential exercises and discussions, we will embark on an interactive journey to learn how we can leverage key insights from creativity research to generate more and better ideas.

The methods and practices you will learn in this course will help you find creative solutions to the complex, ambiguous challenges in your research, professional work, and private life.