Immersion in Creative Thinking: Strategies and Techniques to Foster Early Innovation

Objective: This study explores how immersion in creative thinking, based on Torrance's principles, fosters early-stage innovation. The focus is on evaluating creativity as a critical competency for generating and refining disruptive ideas. Theoretical Framework: The study builds on Torrance's conceptualization of creativity, defined through four dimensions: fluency, originality, elaboration, and flexibility. These principles are further aligned with Schumpeter's theory of creative destruction, highlighting innovation's transformative potential in disrupting established systems and creating new value. Method: The research analyzes 16 structured innovation practices from the book Promoting Creative and Innovative Thinking (Methodologies). These practices are designed to systematically develop creative skills and provide a practical approach to applying Torrance's and Schumpeter's theoretical principles. Research Implications: The study highlights the importance of cultivating strategic environments that support experimentation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the transition from individual creativity to impactful innovations. By integrating structured methodologies, the research emphasizes the role of creativity as a driving force for advancing Research, Development, and Innovation (R+D+i), thereby addressing global challenges across multiple domains. Originality/Value: This research contributes a unique framework that combines Torrance's creativity dimensions with Schumpeter's innovation theory. By operationalizing creativity through structured innovation practices, the study provides practical insights into leveraging creativity and innovation as tools for fostering R+D+i and addressing complex, real-world problems.