CREATIVITY & SCIENCE
Creativity in doctoral education
We all have the ability to imagine a world where everyone is happy and healthy, and the planet is safe. Our imagination is what distinguishes us from other species and even the more advanced computers. Though not typically associated with science, politics, sustainability, or happiness, imagination and creativity are powerful tools for understanding the past and reimagining the future. By fostering visioning, playing, and dreaming, we can create healthier, more sustainable, collective futures.
With the data collected from teaching three creativity courses to PhD biology students, two papers were published sharing our learnings. Overall, while 24 expert biologists showed a similar understanding of creativity, their knowledge and background appeared to have impacted assessments. The products deemed the most creative and original did not necessarily score as the most scientifically impactful or most relevant. To evaluate creativity in scientific products, multiple considerations should be needed to measure domain-specific components more reliably in doctoral education.
IMAGINATION & WELL-BEING
The Role of Metacognition
Imagination has been extensively investigated but research examining it from an integrated perspective combining cognitive neuroscience, psychology, and design is rare. As a qualitative researcher, I design longitudinal studies in the wild to investigate imagination as a catalyst for inner growth and well-being through an interdisciplinary lens. I use prototypes, hands-on activities, frameworks, and interactive experiences to explore how people imagine and apply creativity in everyday life situations. College students, professors, designers, and scientists are participants of this project.
Core outputs have included the development of creativity-led, domain agnostic curricula, courses, and resources (innovative pedagogical methods and activities) for teaching creativity at undergraduate and graduate levels, professors, and professionals. These resources aim to help people develop metacognitive skills and mindfulness to reconnect with their superpowers and feel more confident on their own ideas.
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