This module is been designed for the purpose of promoting and developing creative thinking and problem solving (CTPS) skills and addresses the need for individuals and teams who can ‘think outside the box’, and apply fresh thinking to practical, ‘real world’ problems. The module programme begins by examining the nature of creativity and the characteristics of creative people. It then proceeds to look at what blocks us creatively, and strategies for preventing or breaking through such blocks. The concept of ‘lateral thinking’ will be introduced together with processes for applying lateral thinking to problems that require creative solutions. You will be introduced to a variety of creative problem-solving techniques and approaches to use as ‘tools’ for re-interpreting problems, finding solutions and generating ideas. Practical demonstrations, exercises and task simulations will enable you to gain a deeper knowledge and understanding of these creative tools and the capacity to re-apply them or facilitate their use to generate concepts and ideas.