Main Catalog Humanities Pedagogy

Chess in engineering: the Soviet experience of developing creative thinking

Authors: Kliukin K.D.
Published in issue: #4(105)/2026
DOI:
Category: Humanities \| Chapter: Pedagogy
Keywords: chess, Soviet chess school, Soviet engineering school, creativity, engineering creativity, creative approach
Published: 18.09.2026

In modern engineering, it is important to understand which factors contribute to the development of key professional qualities of specialists. The article presents an analysis of the sociocultural conditions that led to the widespread popularity of chess in the Soviet period, including among engineers. Based on a qualitative analysis of memoirs of scientists, engineers and representatives of their environment, the role of chess in their lives is outlined, the relationship between chess thinking and engineering creativity is revealed, and it is shown that creativity, intellectual flexibility and a creative approach are key qualities in both engineering activity and chess.

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