Mind and method: an examination of cognitive activities in the design process

Abstract

The creative process is a multifaceted and dynamic path of thinking required to execute a project in design-based disciplines (i.e., interior design, architecture). This research seeks to better understand the creative design process by investigating design student experiences during the course of a two week chair design project assignment. This study used an exploratory design to collect data from student demographic information, journal responses, and creative product results. The project deliverables were reviewed by external evaluators to identify level of creative output. High and low level output groups were identified and compared according to demographic data and journal responses. Grade point averages, transfer credits, and total credit hours were higher for the high creativity group in addition to evidence of higher levels of abstract thought and greater divergent thinking. Students in the high creativity group also demonstrated increased depth in thought and higher motivation throughout their creative process.