Pick one concept from the assigned reading, not
already discussed, that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.
I think one concept that
was interesting was maintaining openness in a creative group climate. By being
open we are able to see what others are thinking and create a better idea with
others’ thoughts. The book describes how group creativity depends on the
climate itself. By giving off a supportive climate, members will trust and respect
each other. Creativity comes from all sorts of people and ideas, so it is
helpful when groups are open to the different ideas. People are self conscious, especially in groups so it is helpful
for groups to upkeep the concept of openness. I am one of those people who are
self conscious in a group and do not like talking much because I am scared
about what other people might think. On the other hand when I am in a group
that seems to be more open to things, I tend to be able to contribute my ideas.
I personally believe that when we keep openness in groups we are able to come
up with the best and more original ideas.
I agree that openness is critical to both helping group members feel confident enough to contribute and helping groups create better ideas and solutions to problems. However, I haven’t been in many groups that have maintained openness. People often seem to have trouble leaving the comfort of their paradigms in order to be open to listening and really hearing what others in the group have to say. In addition, in my experience, group members are often swayed by other members who claim to be experts in whatever is being discussed, which is one of the cultural barriers our book mentions. I say “seem to be” because I have found that often people who claim they know what they are talking about often don’t, but love to act as if they do. It surprises me that group members listen to these blowhards. How much better it would be for the every group member to share in the input. Only then could the group achieve true creativity.
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