PC5063 - The Psychology of Creativity and Innovation (2025/26)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2025/26 | ||||||||||
| Module title | The Psychology of Creativity and Innovation | ||||||||||
| Module level | Intermediate (05) | ||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 15 | ||||||||||
| School | School of Social Sciences and Professions | ||||||||||
| Total study hours | 150 | ||||||||||
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| Running in 2025/26(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
This module will introduce you to key theories and models of creativity and innovation and the psychological research on which they are based. Through active and interactive learning methods, you will develop your knowledge and understanding of creative cognition and complex problem solving; neuroscience of creativity and innovation; individual differences and creative intelligence; and the developmental, social, and cultural processes involved in creativity and innovation. You will learn how concepts and processes from the core theories and models of creativity and innovation can be applied in different settings to solve a range of personal, social, cultural, and global issues; how to synthesise (bring together) different information sources to communicate to different audiences; and how to work collaboratively in teams to increase creativity and find innovative solutions to problems. The module has a strong applied focus and the knowledge and skills it allows you to develop are relevant to a wide range of employment contexts, as employers are increasingly looking for creative and innovative solutions to problems in different domains.
Syllabus
Topics will be drawn from: the neuroscience of creativity; creative cognition in complex problem solving; individual differences and creative intelligence; the development of creativity and innovation; social and cultural processes in creativity and innovation; creative communication.
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
The learning objectives will be achieved through a combination of lectures, interactive workshops, seminars, supplementary guided web-based learning, and self-managed independent study. Formative assessments and group work will provide opportunities to receive constructive tutor and peer feedback. You will be encouraged to reflect on your learning throughout the module and to take responsibility for identifying gaps in your knowledge and skill development.
Learning outcomes
On completing this module, you will:
1. Have critical understanding of key theories and models of creativity and innovation and associated research evidence.
2. Understand the contributions of biological, cognitive, differential, and social psychological factors of relevance to creativity and innovation and appreciate how these factors interact.
3. Be able to apply evidence-based reasoning to practical, theoretical, and ethical issues requiring creative solutions and be able to communicate psychological knowledge in appropriate ways for specific audiences.