What is Creative
Ability Development?
Definition
Creative Ability Development (CAD) is an educational method which uses improvisation as a tool to develop the creative part of the brain.
How it works
Creative ability is developed through the disciplined practice of the freedom of choice. In CAD, the teacher sets up a creative problem which has no correct answer. The student is then asked to find their own solution to the problem using improvisational practice. This active, creative struggle triggers a process in the brain known in CAD as the Creative Process Theory.
The Creative Process Theory
Step 1: Conscious Work
At first, the student works consciously to find a solution to the problem posed by the CAD teacher.
Step 2: Subconscious Work
When the student ceases working actively on the problem and is at rest, the subconscious takes over.
Step 3: Inspiration
Multiple repetitions of the conscious-subconscious process leads to “inspiration.” Inspiration is the moment in which the subconscious, having reached a solution to the problem, presents it to the conscious.
Step 4: Theory
As the exciting moment of inspiration typically occurs without an explanation of how one arrived at the solution, examination and analysis is used to codify the inspiration into a new conscious solution, termed “theory.”
Freedom of Choice + Disciplined Practice = Creative Ability Development
The 3 Rules
-
Ideas are owned by the creator and therefore, it can never be criticized or corrected by anyone else in the room. Therefore, there is no such thing as a mistake when we create.
-
To deeply listen, we are silent when others are sharing, and we applaud each creative expression to thank each other for the sharing of ideas.
-
As there is no such thing as a mistake when we create, no-one is allowed to criticize anyone else in the creative environment.
Settings for CAD Education
CAD has been designed to be taught in private and group settings. Ideally, both are used, but much can be accomplished using either separately.
Learn about solo and group formats below.
Solo Practice
A carefully designed set of books and recordings were created specifically to address the daily disciplined practice of the freedom of choice. The books consist of philosophical and pedagogical material as well as carefully graded musical improvisation exercises for daily practice. These act as creative etudes and are the backbone of the CAD process.
Group Practice
Guided by a series of carefully organized games and group exercises, CAD group class teaches students to communicate and share their own ideas, and accept ideas from each other in a unique and powerful way. True creativity is built on this kind of understanding, sharing and acceptance.
