Examining the effects of creativity training on creative production, creative self-efficacy, and neuro-executive functioning

Abstract

A plethora of evidence suggests that creativity can be enhanced following training. In the United Arab Emirates, where creativity and innovation are overtly promoted, especially among young adults, university students complete a semester-long course in creativity as part of their undergraduate degrees. The effectiveness of this course, however, remains undetermined. Thus, we examined, using a sample of 133 participants who completed the 13-week program, whether improvements to creative production, creative self-efficacy (CSE), and neuro-executive functioning would emerge. Pre to post-test differences were assessed and substantial improvements to originality, elaboration, and fluency were observed. CSE was enhanced. However, neuro-executive functioning remained unchanged following the program. These results contribute to the literature attesting to the efficacy of training in creativity skills.