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Abstract / Description of output
Although external representations, such as sketches, are regarded as
facilitating insight during creative synthesis and design tasks, previous
empirical studies have provided conflicting evidence in support of this role.
Here, we argue sketches are static representations that fail to fully externalise
mental imagery processes involved during creative synthesis tasks. An
experiment is reported in which participants manipulate simple alpha-numeric
and geometric shapes into patterns depicting familiar objects or symbols.
Trials were performed using either mental imagery alone, drawing
manipulations in the air with a finger, sketching manipulations on a piece of
paper, or dynamically performing the manipulations on-screen using a
graphics package. Results show the number of patterns correctly interpreted
as recognisable objects was significantly higher in the dynamic support
condition in comparison to all other conditions. Based on this finding, we
argue that static forms of external support may be less effective in supporting
creative problem-solving than previously believed.
facilitating insight during creative synthesis and design tasks, previous
empirical studies have provided conflicting evidence in support of this role.
Here, we argue sketches are static representations that fail to fully externalise
mental imagery processes involved during creative synthesis tasks. An
experiment is reported in which participants manipulate simple alpha-numeric
and geometric shapes into patterns depicting familiar objects or symbols.
Trials were performed using either mental imagery alone, drawing
manipulations in the air with a finger, sketching manipulations on a piece of
paper, or dynamically performing the manipulations on-screen using a
graphics package. Results show the number of patterns correctly interpreted
as recognisable objects was significantly higher in the dynamic support
condition in comparison to all other conditions. Based on this finding, we
argue that static forms of external support may be less effective in supporting
creative problem-solving than previously believed.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 97-112 |
Number of pages | 16 |
Journal | Thinking and Reasoning |
Volume | 21 |
Issue number | 1 |
Early online date | 1 Apr 2014 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2 Jan 2015 |
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