| A phenomenological understanding of creativity must consider sociological, psychological, and neurological aspects.; It is postulated that engineering creativity is a function of Knowledge base and Processing ability, both influenced by the adequate creative (KPA theory) Attitude. The creative attitude, as a Pavlovian behavior, can be stimulated or hindered.; The analysis of creative productivity and the computer simulation of KPA, seem to confirm the validity of this theory, and to indicate that engineers should first concentrate on increasing their knowledge base and then their processing ability, while maintaining a positive creative attitude.; Two new stimulation technique, Systematic Organization of Information and Cognitive Browsing, are proposed. Both techniques are specially geared towards engineering applications (high information content). From the analysis of the creative process, scientific method, and various engineering design methodologies, it becomes apparent that the essence of many engineering procedures is the creative process itself.; A questionnaire is formulated to identify the perceived characteristics of the creative engineer. It is found that the characteristics of the creative engineers are indeed similar to those of other creative individuals. In addition, these results emphasize some of the facets of the KPA theory. Another questionnaire, based on known environmental factors, is formulated and distributed among civil engineers in industry, to identify the creativity elements that affects the civil engineering environment. The analysis of answers shows that engineers are highly affected by extrinsic factors and cultural biases.; Computers have become an essential part of engineering activities and can be used in creative engineering decision making at various levels of interaction. Prototypes are developed to study the use of computers in stimulation, support, and emulation of engineering creativity. |
