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Study: Internet Boosts Individual Creativity, Stifles Team Brainstorming

7/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A Carnegie Mellon University study uncovers a surprising twist: while the internet sparks individual creativity, it stifles group brainstorming. Participants relying on online searches generated fewer unique ideas. To boost creativity, researchers recommend starting brainstorming sessions offline before turning to the web for inspiration, helping teams break free from fixation and unlock their full potential.

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Story summary

A Carnegie Mellon University study uncovers a surprising twist: while the internet sparks individual creativity, it stifles group brainstorming. Participants relying on online searches generated fewer unique ideas. To boost creativity, researchers recommend starting brainstorming sessions offline before turning to the web for inspiration, helping teams break free from fixation and unlock their full potential.