ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses systems approaches to creative problem solving; a framework for creative knowledge environments; obstacles to creative problem solving; and ideas for creating or establishing a creative problem solving environment. The conceptual framework for a Creative Knowledge Environment (CKE) begins with the premise that creativity is to a great extent influenced by the environment in which people work to produce creative products. The chapter explores some ideas for creating and establishing a positive, constructive creative problem solving environment. CKEs are then defined to be those environments, contexts and surroundings that have characteristics that exert a positive influence on human beings engaged in creative work aiming to produce new knowledge or innovations. There are also three basic aspects of CKEs: the physical environment; the social environment; and the cognitive environment. Multi-age and nongraded classes appear to be wonderfully rich and particularly fruitful environments in which developmentally appropriate curriculum can be best implemented.
