Scientifically grounded. Measurably effective.
15+ years of research. 155+ schools. 2,300+ students. Our mission: fostering creativity systematically.
Evidence-based. Proven in practice.
Since 2010, the team at the University of Teacher Education Upper Austria has been developing the "Innovative FOCUS" programme - internationally published, scalable and classroom-oriented.
Scientific publications
The effectiveness of the teaching program “scientific creativity in practice”
Abstract: This study examines the impact of the Scientific Creativity in Practice program on students’ scientific creativity. This compre...
View publicationFostering Scientific Creativity in the Classroom: The Concept of Flex-Based Learning
Abstract. To sustainably shape tomorrow’s world, young people must be prepared to develop successful solution strategies for problems tha...
View publicationInnovative FOCUS: A Program to Foster Creativity and Innovation in the Context of Education for Sustainability
Abstract: This study is based on the urgent need to adapt education systems to meet the challenges of the 21st century. It examines the i...
View publicationThe story behind FOCUS
PH-Prof. Dr. Kurt Haim and his team at the University of Teacher Education Upper Austria launched an ambitious research project. The goal was clear: to develop an evidence-based system that turns students into creative problem-solvers and changemakers.
15 years later, FOCUS has grown into an internationally recognised programme, implemented in more than 155 schools and reaching more than 2,300 students.
What began as a scientific experiment is now a validated system that demonstrably fosters creativity and turns young people into changemakers.
Our vision
A world in which every young person discovers their creative power and uses it for positive change.
Mission
We develop and share scientifically grounded methods that foster creativity systematically and turn young people into changemakers.
Vision
An education landscape with creative problem-solving at its centre, where students develop real solutions to global challenges.
Values
Scientific rigour, practical relevance, sustainability and the conviction that everyone has creative potential.
Scientific foundation
The "Innovative FOCUS" programme is based on 15+ years of systematic research and continuous evaluation.
Research partners
The University of Teacher Education Upper Austria as our scientific home and guarantor of methodological quality.
Development time
15+ years of continuous research and development with iterative improvement of every method.
Publications
Publications in renowned journals such as the Creativity Research Journal and Sustainability.
Methodology
Empirically validated and peer-reviewed - every tool goes through systematic quality control.
Evaluation
Continuous impact measurement with standardised instruments and long-term studies.
International
Collaboration with international research groups such as Penn State University and presentations at global conferences.
Measurable results
The "Innovative FOCUS" programme has proven positive effects across several areas of competence - scientifically documented and statistically significant.
Changemakers in action
Real solutions for real problems. Developed by students, proven in practice.
Outdoor classroom
Facade greening
Smart waste system
International recognition
The "Innovative FOCUS" programme is recognised and valued worldwide as best practice in creative education.
Academic publications
Publications in leading journals such as the Creativity Research Journal and Sustainability show scientific recognition.
International conferences
Talks and workshops at global education conferences spread the FOCUS method worldwide.
EU Best Practice
Recognised as a best-practice example in EU education programmes for innovative pedagogy.
Innovation awards
Awards for outstanding innovation in education and sustainable development.
The team behind FOCUS
Experienced researchers and educators working passionately on the future of education.
Kurt Haim is a professor at the University of Teacher Education Upper Austria and has been researching systematic creativity development for more than 14 years.
Physics
Physics
Physics & digital literacy
Biology
Chemistry
Chemistry
Biology
Physics
Long-term studies & sustainability
The "Innovative FOCUS" programme works beyond the short term - our long-term studies show lasting impact over years.
5-year follow-up
Lasting skills development: participants still show higher creativity scores and better problem-solving skills years later.
Alumni-Tracking
Graduates' career paths: an above-average share choose creative professions or degree programmes focused on innovation.
School impact
Cultural change in educational institutions: FOCUS schools develop a lastingly more creative culture of learning and teaching.
Become part of our success story
Discover how the "Innovative FOCUS" programme can deliver measurable results at your school too.
Scientifically grounded | Measurably effective | Internationally recognised | Classroom-tested