Problem-Finding, Real-World Divergent Thinking Test, and Young Children

Abstract

Recent empirical research suggests that problem-finding is more predictive of children’s creative performance than problem-solving. Especially, problem-finding ability measured on the Real-World Divergent Thinking Test has been recommended by some researchers as a better predictor for children’s creative performances than conventional divergent thinking tests. However, the effectiveness of problem-finding and/or the Real-World Divergent Thinking Test with young children is hardly known for the lack of empirical studies. Thus, the present study examined whether (1) problem-finding ability is more predictive of creative performances than problem-solving ability in 109 second grade children; and (2) the Real-World Divergent Thinking Test is more predictive of young children’s creative performances than a conventional divergent thinking test (Wallach-Kogan Creativity Test). Children’s creative performances were assessed by story-telling, collage-making, and math problem creating tasks, and judged by nine expert judges. The results of the study raise questions about the usefulness of problem-finding ability and the use of the Real-World Divergent Thinking Test as a predictor of potential creative performances in young children.