Creativity and the computer nerd: an exploration of attitudes

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Chapman, G., Fisher, T. ORCID: 0000-0003-2565-8805, Ashworth, P. and Reavey, P., 1997. Creativity and the computer nerd: an exploration of attitudes. Digital Creativity, 8 (34), pp. 97-105. ISSN 1462-6268

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Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09579139708567085

Abstract

This study arises from our concern that many of our best art and design students are failing to make the most of the opportunities provided by IT because of their fear or dislike of computers. This not only deprives them of useful skills, but, even more importantly, deprives many IT based developments of their input. In this paper we investigate the relationship between attitudes to creativity and to computers among students. We quickly discard an approach based on theories of personality types as philosophically and educationally problematic. An approach based on the self-concept of artists and designers, in relation to their own creativity and to their feelings about computers, offers more hope of progress. This means that we do not try to define the attributes of "creative people". Rather, we ask what creativity means to students of art and design and relate these responses to their attitudes to computers. Self-concept depends on how the subjects see themselves within society and culture, and is liable to change as culture changes. One major instrument of cultural change at the present time is the growth of IT itself. We then describe a first attempt at using a psychological method - Kelly's Repertory Grids - to investigate the self-concept of artists and designers. It is hoped to continue with this approach in further studies over the next few years.

Item Type:

Journal article

Publication Title:

Digital Creativity

Creators:

Chapman, G., Fisher, T., Ashworth, P. and Reavey, P.

Publisher:

Taylor & Francis (Routledge)

Date:

1997

Volume:

Number: