Unit 2. Creativity and the Brain

Purpose: This unit will review basic findings from neuroscience that have relevance to our understanding of creativity and innovation. The objective is to establish baseline knowledge about what we now know of how the brain works and address misconceptions about creativity and the brain.

Objectives: After completing this unit, students will be able to: ● Articulate key findings about brain processes that are relevant to creative thinking. ● Critique and counter common misconceptions about the brain’s role in creativity.

Required Readings and Viewings: Immordino-Yang, M. H., Christodoulou, J. A., & Singh, V. (2012). Rest is not idleness: Implications of the brain's default mode for human development and education. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 7(4), 352–365. Sawyer, R. (2012). Cognitive neuroscience and creativity. In Explaining creativity: The science of human innovation (2nd ed., Chapter 10). London: Oxford University Press.

Video
“Creativity and the Brain”

Tasks: View the video “Creativity and the Brain” featuring USC’s Dr. Mary Helen Immordino-Yang. Complete Required Readings and Viewings prior to Class Time. Attend your live class session at the scheduled time.