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Jeffrey Loewenstein, Jack Goncalo, and Ravi Mehta

Thinking and doing the same things faster and better is not enough for innovation; we need creativity. Fortunately, creativity is a skill you can learn. This course will examine when, why, and how you can be creative so you can go through the creative process more efficiently and effectively. It teaches concrete steps to enable you to change your perspective to see new possibilities and solutions. It clarifies what to expect from the creative process and provides support for how you can sustain your progress. It also provides guidance on leading a supportive culture for creativity. The result is an ability to increase your own creativity and that of your teams and organizations so as to recognize and develop new opportunities.

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Thinking and doing the same things faster and better is not enough for innovation; we need creativity. Fortunately, creativity is a skill you can learn. This course will examine when, why, and how you can be creative so you can go through the creative process more efficiently and effectively. It teaches concrete steps to enable you to change your perspective to see new possibilities and solutions. It clarifies what to expect from the creative process and provides support for how you can sustain your progress. It also provides guidance on leading a supportive culture for creativity. The result is an ability to increase your own creativity and that of your teams and organizations so as to recognize and develop new opportunities.

You will be able to:

- Identify and generate opportunities to be creative and launch the innovation process

- Intentionally and confidently enter and proceed through the creative process

- Foster and sustain the creativity of others

This course is part of Gies College of Business’ suite of online programs, including the iMBA and iMSM. Learn more about admission into these programs and explore how your Coursera work can be leveraged if accepted into a degree program at https://degrees.giesbusiness.illinois.edu/idegrees/.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Course Orientation
You will become familiar with the course, your classmates, and our learning environment. The orientation will also help you obtain the technical skills required for the course.
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Module 1: Being Creative
In this module you will learn why creativity matters, what creativity is, and how to get started being creative.
Module 2: Raw Materials and End Products
In this module you will learn a way to break down what it is we are currently thinking so that we can consider changing it to generate new outcomes.
Module 3: The Creative Journey
In this module, you will learn that creativity can be joyful, intrinsically motivating, and even liberating. You will also learn how to manage your organization so that your employees find ways to persist through the process as well.
Module 4 Supporting Creativity
We want to be more creative ourselves, and we also want to support the creativity of others. In this module, we examine how to help encourage creativity in our teams and organizations. We explore how the cultures we set can support creativity though supporting members’ motivation to be creative and providing opportunities to be creative. We examine how core tasks around providing feedback, setting rewards, and managing resources and setting constraints can encourage rather than discourage creativity. We also review the role of context, and how the spaces in which we work signal creativity is welcome or unwelcome. Through our actions and leadership, we can foster openness, autonomy, and playful experimentation, and thereby support creativity in our teams and organizations.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides a framework to develop creativity, a skill that is valuable in various fields
Instructors are recognized for their expertise in creativity and innovation
Covers the creative journey, helping learners navigate the challenges and opportunities involved in creative processes
Examines how to foster and sustain creativity in teams and organizations, providing practical guidance for leaders
This course is part of the Gies College of Business' suite of online programs, indicating a strong academic foundation

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Reviews summary

Highly-praised creativity course

Learners say "Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives" is well received with largely positive reviews. This course provides engaging assignments and engaging instructors who help students understand the fundamentals of creativity. Reviews highlight the well structured content and practical tools offered. Students appreciate the real-world examples and step-by-step process for analyzing creativity.
Students find the learning environment to be positive and supportive.
"I have to admit that this was one of the most entertaining yet educational MOOC I took in Coursera."
"I strongly encourage you to consider taking this course."
"Great course that gives you a framework and 'tools' to be creative consistently."
Professors Loewenstein and Goncalo are engaging and knowledgeable.
"Excellent! Well structured. ... The professors are engaging and seem to really care about their students."
"I really enjoyed this course - the instructors were fantastic and the case studies they shared to help drive the concepts home were great."
"I really learnt a lot from great professors because they did justice to means of changing perspectives. It was great and i have added to my knowledge in full, thank you Illinois University."
The course content is well-structured, easy to understand, and relevant.
"I really enjoyed the course. The Professors are awesome; and the subject matter interesting."
"This is an excellent course that is constructed to to encourage you to apply creative thinking to the Peer reviewed assessments."
"The module provided me with very practical tools I can utilize to move beyond the current perspective into a more creative space."
The course offers practical tools for changing perspectives and enhancing creativity.
"This course made the process of creativity clearer, and it provided methods to find ways to be creative when you're stuck through systems like PAGES."
"The tools provided in the course can be easily understood and implemented into everyday situations."
"Excellent Course. Very Practical and Simple tools that can be readily applied to the working environment."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives with these activities:
Review lectures from a prerequisite course
Refresh your knowledge of the foundational concepts covered in prerequisite courses to prepare for this course.
Browse courses on Creativity
Show steps
  • Locate the course materials for prerequisite courses relevant to this course.
  • Review lecture videos and notes to identify key concepts and refresh your understanding.
Review the Fundamentals of Creativity
Review the basic concepts of creativity to establish a solid foundation for the course.
Browse courses on Creativity
Show steps
  • Read the course syllabus
  • Review the materials from Module 1: Being Creative
  • Take notes on the key concepts and ideas
Complete exercises on creative thinking and problem-solving
Sharpen your creative thinking and problem-solving skills through targeted exercises.
Browse courses on Creative Thinking
Show steps
  • Locate online or printed resources that provide exercises on creative thinking and problem-solving.
  • Select exercises that challenge you and push you to think outside the box.
  • Complete the exercises regularly, tracking your progress and identifying areas for improvement.
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
Read "The Innovator's Dilemma" by Clayton M. Christensen
Gain insights into the challenges and opportunities of innovation by reading a seminal work in the field.
Show steps
  • Acquire a copy of "The Innovator's Dilemma" by Clayton M. Christensen.
  • Read the book carefully, taking notes and highlighting key passages.
  • Reflect on the concepts presented in the book and consider how they apply to the field of creativity and innovation.
Explore Case Studies on Creative Problem Solving
Examine real-world examples of creative problem solving to understand the application of the concepts in the course.
Browse courses on Creative Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Find case studies or articles on creative problem solving
  • Read and analyze the case studies
  • Identify the different strategies and techniques used
Explore online tutorials on creative problem-solving techniques
Supplement your learning with guided instructions and practical examples of creative problem-solving techniques.
Browse courses on Creative Problem-Solving
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials or courses that provide structured guidance on creative problem-solving.
  • Select a tutorial that aligns with your learning style and interests.
  • Follow the instructions and complete the exercises provided in the tutorial.
  • Reflect on your learning and identify areas where you can apply these techniques in your own work.
Participate in Peer Feedback and Discussion
Engage with peers in discussions and feedback sessions to gain diverse perspectives and refine creative ideas.
Browse courses on Peer Feedback
Show steps
  • Join or form study groups with other students
  • Share your work and ideas with others
  • Provide feedback and ask for suggestions
Engage in brainstorming sessions with peers to generate creative ideas
Collaborate with peers in brainstorming sessions to stimulate creative thinking and generate innovative ideas.
Browse courses on Brainstorming
Show steps
  • Form a group of peers with diverse perspectives and backgrounds.
  • Establish clear goals and ground rules for the brainstorming session.
  • Use brainstorming techniques such as mind mapping, freewriting, or role-playing to generate a wide range of ideas.
  • Evaluate and refine the ideas collectively, focusing on their feasibility and potential impact.
Engage in Creative Exercises
Practice various creative exercises to develop and refine creativity skills.
Show steps
  • Try out brainstorming techniques like mind mapping and freewriting
  • Experiment with different creative tools and resources
  • Share your ideas and solutions with others
Develop a Creative Project
Apply the concepts and techniques learned in the course to a practical project, fostering creativity and innovation.
Browse courses on New Product Development
Show steps
  • Identify a problem or opportunity that requires a creative solution
  • Generate and evaluate different ideas and concepts
  • Develop a prototype or experimental solution
Develop a case study to identify opportunities for creativity and innovation
Engage in practical application of the principles of creativity and innovation by developing a case study that explores real-world examples.
Browse courses on Creativity
Show steps
  • Identify a business or industry facing challenges or opportunities that require creative solutions.
  • Gather relevant data and conduct research to understand the context and scope of the case.
  • Use the concepts of creativity and innovation to generate a range of potential solutions.
  • Evaluate and refine the solutions based on feasibility, impact, and alignment with organizational goals.
  • Document your findings and present your case study, demonstrating the application of creativity and innovation in problem-solving.
Develop a creative prototype or concept for a new product or service
Apply the principles of creativity and innovation to develop a tangible prototype or concept that demonstrates your understanding of the creative process.
Browse courses on Product Development
Show steps
  • Identify a problem or opportunity that you believe can be addressed through a creative solution.
  • Use brainstorming and ideation techniques to generate a range of potential solutions.
  • Select a promising solution and develop a prototype or concept that embodies the key elements of your idea.
  • Present your prototype or concept to peers or mentors for feedback and refinement.
  • Document your design process and reflect on the challenges and lessons learned.
Participate in a community project that promotes creativity and innovation
Apply your learning to real-world situations by volunteering with organizations that focus on creativity and innovation.
Browse courses on Community Involvement
Show steps
  • Research community organizations that align with your interests in creativity and innovation.
  • Contact the organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities and requirements.
  • Attend volunteer training and orientation sessions.
  • Participate actively in the project, applying your skills and knowledge to support the organization's mission.

Career center

Learners who complete Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Creative Director
Creative Directors oversee the creative vision and execution of marketing campaigns, branding initiatives, and other creative projects. They collaborate with teams of designers, writers, and other professionals to generate original and impactful creative concepts. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide a strong foundation for aspiring Creative Directors by enhancing their understanding of the creative process, fostering a culture of creativity, and developing strategies for effective idea generation. This course can help them effectively lead creative teams and deliver successful creative campaigns.
Innovator
Innovators develop new products, processes, or services that address unmet needs in the market. Creativity and a deep understanding of user needs are crucial for generating groundbreaking ideas that have the potential to transform industries. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the creative process, fostering a culture of innovation, and developing strategies for effective idea generation. This course can help aspiring Innovators develop their creative thinking, enhance their problem-solving abilities, and contribute to the development of innovative products or solutions.
UX Designer
UX Designers focus on creating user-friendly and intuitive experiences for websites, apps, and other digital products. Creativity and a deep understanding of user needs are crucial for developing effective UX designs that enhance user engagement and satisfaction. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the creative process, fostering a culture of innovation within UX design teams, and developing strategies for effective idea generation. This course can help aspiring UX Designers refine their problem-solving skills, develop their creativity, and enhance their ability to deliver impactful UX designs.
Designer
Designers create visual concepts for various media, including websites, product packaging, and marketing materials. Creativity is essential for generating visually appealing and effective designs that meet the needs of clients. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the design process, exploring different perspectives, and fostering a creative mindset. This course can help aspiring Designers refine their problem-solving skills, develop their creativity, and enhance their ability to deliver impactful designs.
Innovation Consultant
Innovation Consultants help organizations develop and implement innovative strategies to drive growth and solve complex business problems. Creativity and a deep understanding of business are crucial for generating innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of organizations. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the creative process, fostering a culture of innovation within organizations, and developing strategies for effective idea generation. This course can help aspiring Innovation Consultants enhance their problem-solving abilities, develop their creative thinking, and contribute to the success of innovation initiatives.
Graphic designer
Graphic Designers create visual content for various media, including websites, marketing materials, and social media. Creativity and a strong understanding of design principles are crucial for developing effective visual content that communicates messages effectively. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the creative process, exploring different perspectives, and fostering a creative mindset. This course can help aspiring Graphic Designers refine their design skills, develop their creativity, and enhance their ability to deliver impactful visual content.
Writer
Writers create content for various media, including articles, blog posts, marketing materials, and creative writing. Creativity and a strong command of language are essential for generating engaging and effective written content. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the creative process, exploring different perspectives, and fostering a creative mindset. This course can help aspiring Writers refine their writing skills, develop their creativity, and enhance their ability to deliver impactful written content.
Photographer
Photographers capture and create visual images for various purposes, including commercial, artistic, and journalistic applications. Creativity and a strong understanding of photography techniques are crucial for developing effective visual content that communicates messages effectively. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the creative process, exploring different perspectives, and fostering a creative mindset. This course can help aspiring Photographers develop their creative skills, refine their photography techniques, and enhance their ability to capture impactful images.
Visual Storyteller
Visual Storytellers use visual media to create compelling narratives that engage audiences and communicate messages effectively. Creativity and a strong understanding of storytelling techniques are crucial for developing effective visual stories that resonate with audiences. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the creative process, exploring different perspectives, and fostering a creative mindset. This course can help aspiring Visual Storytellers refine their storytelling skills, develop their creativity, and enhance their ability to deliver impactful visual narratives.
Product Manager
Product Managers lead the development and management of products, ensuring they align with market needs and customer expectations. Creativity and innovation are essential for developing successful products that meet the evolving demands of the market. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the creative process, fostering a culture of innovation within product teams, and generating ideas for new product features or improvements. This course can help aspiring Product Managers enhance their problem-solving abilities, develop their creative thinking, and contribute to the development of successful products.
Creative Strategist
Creative Strategists develop and execute creative strategies to achieve marketing and business objectives. Creativity and a deep understanding of consumer behavior are crucial for developing effective creative strategies that resonate with target audiences and drive results. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the creative process, fostering a culture of creativity within creative teams, and developing strategies for effective idea generation. This course can help aspiring Creative Strategists enhance their problem-solving abilities, develop their creative thinking, and contribute to the success of creative campaigns.
Advertising Creative
Advertising Creatives develop and execute advertising campaigns across various media, including print, digital, and social media. Creativity and a deep understanding of consumer behavior are crucial for developing effective advertising campaigns that capture attention and drive conversions. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the creative process, fostering a culture of innovation within advertising teams, and developing strategies for effective idea generation. This course can help aspiring Advertising Creatives enhance their problem-solving abilities, develop their creative thinking, and contribute to the success of advertising campaigns.
Brand Manager
Brand Managers are responsible for developing and managing brand strategies to create a strong and consistent brand identity. Creativity and a deep understanding of consumer behavior are crucial for developing effective brand strategies that resonate with target audiences. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the creative process, fostering a culture of creativity within brand management teams, and developing strategies for effective idea generation. This course can help aspiring Brand Managers enhance their problem-solving abilities, develop their creative thinking, and contribute to the success of brand-building initiatives.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers oversee the development and execution of marketing campaigns to promote products or services. Creativity and innovation are essential for developing effective marketing strategies that resonate with target audiences. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the creative process, generating innovative marketing concepts, and fostering a culture of creativity within marketing teams. This course can help aspiring Marketing Managers enhance their problem-solving abilities, develop their creative thinking, and contribute to the success of marketing campaigns.
Art Director
Art Directors lead a team of artists to create visual concepts for marketing campaigns, product packaging, and other visual media. It requires creativity and innovation to generate eye-catching and effective concepts that appeal to the target audience. Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives can provide valuable insights into understanding the creative process, generating new perspectives, and fostering a supportive culture for creativity. This course can equip aspiring Art Directors with the skills and knowledge to navigate the creative process effectively, enhance their problem-solving abilities, and contribute to the success of marketing campaigns.

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Creativity Toolkit I: Changing Perspectives.
Discusses the importance of creativity in the modern world. It provides insights into how to develop creative thinking skills and how to foster a creative environment.
Examines the challenges that established companies face when trying to innovate. It provides a framework for understanding how to avoid the innovator's dilemma and succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Provides a step-by-step guide to using design thinking to solve problems and create innovative solutions. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about design thinking and how to apply it to their work.
Provides a behind-the-scenes look at Pixar Animation Studios. It offers insights into the creative culture that has led to the creation of some of the world's most beloved animated films.
Provides a practical guide to using the Lean Startup approach to innovation. It offers a step-by-step process for testing and validating new ideas and bringing them to market.
Provides a framework for developing a disciplined approach to creativity. It offers a set of tools and techniques to help readers generate new ideas and achieve their creative goals.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the business of design. It explores the role of design in innovation and how to use design thinking to create successful products and services.
Provides a practical guide to developing a creative habit. It offers a set of exercises and techniques to help readers overcome creative blocks and generate new ideas.
Provides a motivational guide to overcoming creative blocks. It offers insights into the challenges that artists and creative professionals face and how to overcome them.
Provides a playful and inspiring guide to creativity. It offers a set of principles and practices to help readers overcome their fears and unleash their creative potential.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the cognitive processes involved in creativity. It explores the different theories of creativity and how they can be applied to the real world.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the cognitive processes involved in thinking and decision-making. It explores different theories of thinking and decision-making and how they can be applied to the real world.

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