Physics Department Seminar University of Alaska Fairbanks


J O U R N A L    C L U B

 
On the Origin of Creativity and Leadership
 
by
 
Joseph R. Kan
Professor and Dean Emeritus
University of Alaska Fairbanks
 
 
ABSTRACT

This talk is to share my learning experience on creativity. Let's start with some basic questions on creativity: What is creativity? Where does it come from? How to improve your creativity? Creativity embodies personal expressions of new idea originated from interacting with Nature. Creativity works through the feedback process between an individual and Nature as the individual struggles to solve a real life problem or to understand a natural phenomenon. In natural science and engineering, the feedback is between the experiment and the theory. In liberal arts, the feedback is between the idea and the observation. In business, the feedback is between demand and supply. Learning through the feedback process is experiential learning, in contrast to book learning. There are no rules governing the creative process. However, creativity can be improved by developing creative habits, such as having the courage to take risks, to challenge assumptions, to recognize patterns, to make bold associations, to develop imagination into vision, and to verify new results. Creativity is also essential to effective leadership and to leading a productive life.

 
Friday, 23 February 2007
Globe Room, Elvey Building
3:45 PM