Transforming higher education for the knowledge economy: Enhancing creative thinking and problem-solving skills through collaborative learning

This quasi-experimental study examines the effects of a structured creativity-enhancing intervention on creative thinking and problem-solving skills in Shanghai University students. The 12-week intervention included collaborative, hands-on activities such as brainstorming, lateral thinking exercises, and design thinking challenges. A total of 120 students were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. Experimental quantitative analysis revealed statistically significant differences in creative thinking and problem-solving abilities in the experimental group, reflecting the program's effectiveness. Regression analysis results revealed that intrinsic motivation emerged as a substantial contributor towards success, besides engagement and creative skill development. Qualitative feedback from participants reflected increased confidence, enjoyment, and perception of the real-world relevance of learning experiences. Although successful on multiple fronts, the intervention constrained academic performance, suggesting a need for longer-term attempts to integrate creativity-targeted interventions with traditional academic outcomes. It highlights the importance of nurturing innovation as a 21st-century competency and advancing higher education practices worldwide. Future studies must investigate longitudinal impacts, cross-disciplinary applications, and PBL cross-cultural comparisons, making these findings accessible to a broader educational context.