CREATIVITY TESTS: A BOON OR BOONDOGGLE FOR EDUCATION?

This article examines the function of creativity tests in selecting children for gifted programs and for college admission. To many in the educational community this appeal for the use of creative tests has a comforting ring. It is consistent with the belief that while intelligent people do a fine job of perpetuating the status quo, in a time of rapid change creative individuals are needed to ensure innovation. The use of the said tests is also viewed as consistent with the continuing search for greater educational equality.