Josie Harvey University of Huddersfield

Paper is based on findings and developments of an on-going TQEF Project in ‘Creativity and Innovation in Teaching in Higher Education’ Purpose of the project is to establish a development unit which will encourage and promote creative and innovative teaching and learning across the University.

The paper has four Themes 1.How the Creativity Café was built. 2. How the ideas and activities of the Café Menu were developed. 3. Reflecting on the networking of the ‘customers’. 4.The benefits, issues and way forward

Using a Collaborative Methodology Interviewed over 40 academic staff Creative and innovative methods they used in teaching The importance of creativity to them and their students

Main Findings from the inquiry 4 Broad Categories of Creativity identified Unaware of creative practice outside the department Welcomed the opportunity to meet others and share their work on creativity

4 Broad Categories of Creativity in Teaching 1.The Process of Creative Thinking 2.Creative Teaching Techniques 3.Creativity in Community and Employer Engagement 4.Creativity and Information Technology

The Creativity Cafe An informal, but structured day where staff could network and share good practice Themed session set out in a ‘bistro’ style with tablecloths, candles and waiters ‘Diners’ sat with unfamiliar staff Followed up at least one contact Activities around the 4 areas of creativity

Feedback from the Creativity Cafe All relished the time and space to share good practice New ideas on creative practice and a chance to share issues More examples wanted of creative teaching techniques More opportunities to network and collaborate across Schools

Where next… Creativity Cafes are on the Staff Development listing for next year Encouraging informal networks between staff Networking with other universities and their Centres of Creativity Setting up a Creativity website Producing a Creative Teaching Techniques DVD for July 2008 ‘A Toolkit for Creative Teaching in Post- Compulsory Education’ textbook published March 2009 National Conference Café at the University on 6 th November 2008