Hatching a Theory of Incubation Effects
Abstract
Does putting a problem aside 'to incubate' really help, We address this question through a review of the literature on incubation that includes discussion of the four stage theory of creative thought (Wallas, 1926), the distinction between conscious and unconscious work, and an in depth look at the cognitive mechanisms that might underlie incubation effects. A critical examination of the experimental studies on incubation reveals a wide range of findings -- some in apparent contradiction. We argue that this apparent confusion results mostly from a failure to consider the interaction of factors affecting incubation. These factors include the nature of the primary and interpolated tasks, the length and timing of the interruption (incubation period), and individual differences in the knowledge and abilities of subjects. Progress, towards understanding incubation may depend upon developing a unified theory -- one that will take into account the interactions of the different factors in a consistent and principled way. We offer one such unified theory as an example, illustrating how a unified approach might account for the existing empirical literature on incubation including several previously puzzling results. Keywords: Incubation, Problem solving, Creativity, Interruptions.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA219275
Entities
People
- Craig A. Kaplan
- Janet Davidson
Organizations
- Carnegie Mellon University