Development of Creative Process Assessment Scale (CPAS)

Abstract

Creativity can be described as a process, and a model with eight phases is presented here: 1. problem discovery, 2. information search, intake and valuation, 3. concept combination, 4. idea generation, 5. development of a solution approach, 6. idea evaluation, 7. adaption and realization, and 8. communication and implementation. To measure these phases, a 24-item Creative Process Assessment Scale (CPAS) was developed, tested on 2324 participants, and validated with several instruments. This confirmed good reliability for the total score (Omega total: 0.95, Cronbach's alpha: 0.93, retest reliability: 0.87). Bifactor models were computed (with a general factor and either eight or seven specific factors). Combining phases 4 and 5 as core creativity showed the best fit. Validity analyses confirmed the phase model: Correlation patterns to personality traits showed the highest correlations between phase 4 and openness, between phase 7 and conscientiousness, between phase 8 and extraversion and risk-taking, and between phase 2 and the need for cognition. The CPAS correlated highly with creative self-efficacy as well as with domains of creativity and medium with scales measuring creative activity, achievement and behavior. The CPAS is thus a reliable and valid instrument to assess the creative process.