Empirical testing of the 4Ps model

: effects of a computer-Aided-Instruction (CAI) program on Hong Kong upper primary school students' creativity

Abstract

Creativity theorists have proposed a confluence approach for the conceptualization of creativity. Mooney’s (1975) 4Ps model, which distinguishes four aspects of creativity, has been regarded as the most influential of those using the approach. To date, however, no empirical research has been conducted to validate this theoretical model. The present study aims to test empirically the applicability of the 4Ps model by designing and evaluating the effects of a computer-aided-instruction (CAI) program on enhancing Hong Kong upper primary school students’ creativity. The training program rooted in the 4Ps model was designed and implemented at one local primary school. The fifth and sixth graders (N = 213) aged 10-12 participated in the program for four months. The effectiveness of the training program was evaluated by a pre- and post-testing approach. The major measures are related to the 4Ps model and include the Hong Kong version of Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking (HK-TTCT), self-perception scale regarding the characteristics of a creative person, and product test. Two independent judges were invited to evaluate students’ essay along six criteria. Participants’ feedback on the program was collected and the class teachers’ observations of behavioral changes among the students after the training were recorded. A series of repeated measures two-way ANOVAs and t-tests were conducted to examine the group differences along all measures. Results indicate that the training program has been effective in enhancing students’ creativity. A consistent improvement on divergent thinking tests, creative personality scale, and creative product test has been observed in the experimental group in the post-test. Implications of the study for education are also discussed.

Date of Award	15 Jul 2005
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	City University of Hong Kong
Supervisor	Elisabeth U RUDOWICZ (Supervisor)