Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: The Psychology of Creativity
SCQF level: 10:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: PSY10116
Module leader: Rory MacLean
School School of Applied Sciences
Subject area group: Psychology
Prerequisites

Requisites: Pre-requisite: [Module PSY09103] Individual Differences 2 AND Pre-requisite: Equivalent learning AND
Description of module content:

Creativity is a fascinating phenomenon, but what exactly is it and what psychological processes underlie it? This module aims to answer these questions, introducing you to historical and contemporary psychological perspectives and research on creativity. We will examine topics including definitions, assessment methods, the biological basis of creativity, cognition, development, individual differences, and socio-cultural perspectives. Over the course of the module, you will be encouraged to engage with different forms of creativity and develop your own creative thinking skills, as well as enhancing your critical thinking skills and challenging popular "myths" about creativity.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Critically evaluate psychological theory and research on creativity

LO2: Apply psychological perspectives on creativity to creative individuals, organisations, products and/or processes.

LO3: Challenge popular understandings of creativity

LO4: Critically explore psychological perspectives on creativity

LO5: Demonstrate, develop and reflect upon your own creative skills
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2025/6, Trimester 2, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: SIGHTHILL
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Rory MacLean
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Lecture 18 In weeks 2-7 and 9-11, there will be a 2-hour lecture. This will cover the main module content, with further discussion and/or interactive activities; these may include creative activities.
Face To Face Fieldwork 3 In week 8, there will be a field trip to a creative organisation or institution (e.g., art gallery, theatre), where you will apply course content to creative outputs, organisations, and/or creators. (If a field trip is not possible, an alternative creative activity will be offered.)
Online GROUPIND_STUDY 179 You are expected to engage in reading, online learning activities and preparation for assessments.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Portfolio 60 1~2~3 Week 13 , WORDS= 3 x 750 words You will be asked to write three blog posts (around 750 words each, due weeks 7, 10 and 13) where you will apply your learning about the psychology of creativity. Examples of topics offered may include a creative person, output, organisation or process, or your own experience of creativity.
Project - Practical 40 3~4~5 Week 13 This assessment is your opportunity to break out of the formal essay structure and choose whatever form of assessment you prefer, so long as it is not an essay. Examples may include, but are not limited to: oral presentation, video, painting, newspaper article, website, musical composition, cartoon, sculpture, dramatic script. Your "unessay" should critically explore a topic or debate covered in the module, and should be supported by a 750-word supporting statement, where you explain the rationale and preparation for your unessay, and reflect on your own creativity.
Component 1 subtotal: 60
Component 2 subtotal: 40
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
The Psychology of Creativity
 

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