The authors' recent theoretical work has focused on developing the construct of mini-c creativity and illustrating how all levels of creative performance follow a trajectory that starts with novel and personally meaningful interpretations (mini-c), which can then progress to intrapersonally judged novel and meaningful contributions (little-c) and…

This paper describes an evolving systems approach for use in exploring aspects of creativity, including: measurement of creativity; uniqueness; processes which amplify deviation; novelty and progress; chance and purpose; networks of enterprise; self-concept; difficulty, duration, and purpose; sudden insight; and sequential stage theories. (JDD)

Several commentaries on Howard Gruber's paper, "The Evolving Systems Approach to Creative Work," are offered: "How High Should One Climb to Find Common Ground?" (Robert Albert); "Where is the Evolving Milieu?" (Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi); "Creativity: The Individual, The Systems, The Approach" (Todd Lubart and Robert Sternberg); and "Quality and…

This article analyzes an essay by Joseph Renzulli reviewing his work on gifted models by using the career of Renzulli himself as a case study of the components of creative, productive giftedness. It finds that creatively gifted individuals must face challenges that are formalized in the Sternberg and Lubart investment theory of creativity.…

A clinical psychologist recounts her childhood efforts to develop creatively despite the discouragements of many of the adults in her world. (DB)

The most serious blocks to creative thinking are viewed as psychological in nature. These obstacles are the hardest to recognize and overcoming them requires changing basic personality traits that have been years in the making. Tips on how individuals can gather self-knowledge and express individuality and creativity are given. (MP)

Examines the similarities and differences between the artistry of children and adult masters. Suggests that while artists have more highly developed skills, far more control of their gifts, and superior ability to experiment systematically and to choose among alternatives, much in their processes of creation is reminiscent of children. (JMF)

Argues the need to use computers for developing active intelligence and dynamic knowledge (versus static copying). Also suggests utilizing computers to solve problems for which they are most appropriate and to assist personal development through "dissonance" (presenting challenges to each individual's equilibrium). (JBM)

The essay examines trends in attitudes toward creativity in education and business, problems in studying creativity in natural situations, creativity programing for school-age children, current efforts to encourage innovation in business, and the need to nurture creativity in every individual. (DB)

Argues that outdoor education is, in its own right, a creative form of learning. Draws parallels between stages of personal development in real life and in caving (as an example of outdoor education). Includes citations from Maslow's work that are applicable to outdoor and adventure education activities. Notes the importance of preparing outdoor…

Considers the importance of scholarly discourse on art and human development and maintains that basic questions need exploration: (1) what is developing psychologically? (2) what are the indicators of development? (3) what indicates development has been constrained in some way? and (4) where does art theory belong in scholarly discourse on child…

This paper attempts to make explicit some assumptions about the creative abilities of people with developmental disabilities, and offers constructive strategies for replacing negative ideas and attitudes with positive attitudes. The paper points out that: a high degree of artistic ability can coexist with considerable impairments in other areas of…

Examines the positive perspective of the nuances of show-and-tell. Suggests that show-and-tell can be: (1) an activity for closure and evaluation, and for clarification of feelings; (2) a forum for expressive and receptive language development; (3) a window into children's thoughts and feelings; and (4) a source for curriculum ideas. (Author/RWB)

The educational system is an invention by people to control the life force of conative energy. It teaches individuals to deny their own creative self-fulfillment and future options, to amass authoritative abstractions, and to welcome adulthood within the parameters given by others. (Author/SJL)

In an interview, Benjamin Bloom outlines his reasons for studying the development of immensely talented people. He feels his study can help educators understand how all students can be more successful. (MD)