Cognitive complexity and methodical training: enhancing or suppressing creativity

This research explores an aspect of developers' cognitive structure based on the theory of cognitive complexity. Underlying structure for information processing is the central topic of a variety of theories known collectively as complexity theories. These theories address the structural dimensions that underlie the flow processing, and use of information within individual, team or organization. This paper uses the theory of complexity as a theoretical basis in explaining phenomena in systems development arena, especially in relation to training on systems development methods. Based on an experiment of novice developers, this paper provides initial evidence for research feasibility using the theory of cognitive complexity, suggests theoretical relationship of the cognitive complexity towards the creativity, and presents a stages-of-growth model for cognitive development of systems developer.