Identifying the problem

Moving on from the initial project introduction and conducting further research into where creativity is lacking in terms of university level education I have concluded that the Medical School is definitely calling out for help.

As I mentioned last week - with an increasing number of Medical professionals prematurely terminating their careers due to an inability to think creatively when faced with unfamiliar problems in an extremely stressful environment, it is becoming apparent that something needs to be done about the situation and where better to start than in the very school the doctors of tomorrow will be training in?

Looking into the subject in greater detail I have decided that I want to create a space which will encourage medical students to partake in some kind of task which requires collaboration and play. Researching extensively into the importance of play it has become increasingly clearer just how vital it is for children and adults alike to have the opportunity to express themselves in an informal, safe environment which naturally causes a sense of relaxation promoting creative thoughts. Play is not only fun for children but it actually allows them to explore and discover things for themselves in a judgement free zone. In general adults do not partake in such activities and tend to have a barrier up when found in such situations as they are afraid of looking silly or being judged by those around them. By creating an environment in which ‘play’ is seen as the norm, I will hopefully be able to break down this barrier and attract adults to the idea of using a playful approach to collaboration.

Speaking to my three medical student flatmates I have gained a fuller insight into the daily routines and requirements of their academic schedules and am about to create a short survey to target a wider range of medical students and hear their feelings on the subject of creativity.