During the final reporting period, we focused on 4 Work Packages:
1. WP3 - Randomised Control Trial Design and Recruitment:
In this phase, we crafted a comprehensive Randomised Control Trial (RCT) and successfully enlisted the intended participants. We executed a sophisticated RCT, employing both an experimental and waiting-list control group. Notably, our recruitment efforts extended to Ireland, yielding 107 businesses, with 68 completing the baseline questionnaire. As per amendment AMD-824217-7, we conducted additional studies to assess the impact of cognitive training on creativity and creative process engagement. Overall, 297 participants were engaged in various studies through Prolific.
2. WP4 - RCT Implementation and Data Collection:
WP4 involved executing the RCT as per the design outlined in WP3. This entailed measuring outcomes across three time points: T1 (baseline), T2 (three months post-administration of the Innovation Support Scheme to the experimental group), and T3 (three months after the waiting-list control group received the Scheme). Data collection occurred in both Germany and Ireland for the leadership training, and in Germany, Ireland, and the UK for the cognitive training.
3. WP5 - Data Analysis:
In this phase, data analysis occurred across Germany, Ireland, and the UK. For leadership training, three distinct analytical methods were employed to assess its efficacy within the experimental group. These methods included separate assessments for outcomes using a generalized linear model, a simultaneous assessment through a path model, and an effectiveness test using mixed ANOVA. As for the cognitive training, given the high dropout rate in the initial German study, no analysis was conducted on the limited data collected. The second cognitive study, focusing on identifying cognitive predictors of creative outcomes, utilized basic descriptive correlation analysis and a mixed-ANOVA for the online experimental trial via Prolific.
4. WP6 - Dissemination Plan Development and Implementation:
This phase involved creating and enacting a comprehensive dissemination plan for promoting the DINNOS project and its results. Activities encompassed launching a project website, engaging in social media initiatives, hosting project conferences and presentations, and distributing informative materials. Post-project, dissemination activities will persist to ensure maximal impact, with project results being actively employed in teaching, research, and new funding endeavours for at least four years after completion.
The evaluation concludes that the leadership intervention indeed stimulates innovation and creativity. However, the precise underlying mechanism remains unclear.
Furthermore, the cognitive training exhibits the potential to enhance creativity, although subsequent studies are necessary provide a better understanding.
