������Ƶ

Topic

Crafting Closeness: Building Connection through Collaborative Creativity in Minecraft

Department of Computer Science

Date & location

• Monday, June 15, 2026

• 9:00 A.M.

• Engineering Computer Science Building

• Room 468

Reviewers

Supervisory Committee

• Dr. Regan Mandryk, Department of Computer Science, ������Ƶ (Co-Supervisor)

• Dr. Sowmya Somanath, Department of Computer Science, ������Ƶ (Co-Supervisor) 

External Examiner

• Prof. David Leach, Department of Writing, ������Ƶ 

Chair of Oral Examination

• Dr. Charlotte Norris, School of Environmental Studies, ������Ƶ 

Abstract

We investigate how designing to support collaborative creativity can foster social connection in interactive systems. Although creativity and social connection are conceptually linked, engaging in digital creative activity has not been examined as a mechanism for explicitly fostering social connection. We conducted a mixed methods survey study of people who play Minecraft with others, combining measures of creativity, social connection, and features of digital collaboration with open-ended responses. Quantitative analysis revealed that both creative self-perception and the creativity support of the tool influenced the building of social capital through creative collaboration. Furthermore, creativity support was more influential in informing bonding ties than bridging ties. Qualitative thematic analysis identified three phases of the creative process (problem-finding, brainstorming, and implementation) and four experiential factors (unity, agency, playfulness, and achievement) that shaped experiences of social connection and disconnection. We contribute a set of general design implications for leveraging collaborative creativity to support social connection in digital systems.