Creative Thinking and Problem Solving

Course overview

Short description: Problem solving has traditionally focused on constraining human behaviors to optimize system performance, but inhibiting behavior has the unwanted side effect of inhibiting creativity and innovation as well. In today's complex and ever-changing environment, stifling creativity and innovation are dangerous strategies. Creative Problem Solving will explore methods for solving problems with creativity while accounting for human limitations and explore reasons that innovation can be challenging. Methods for stimulating new ideas while maintaining order and stability in the laboratory setting will be presented. Cycles of innovation and stabilization will be key to surviving in the current healthcare environment. Objectives: 1. Discuss the learned skills that enable creative thinking. 2. Describe the scientific method for creative problem solving. 3. Apply the methods of innovative problem solving to the laboratory environment.