The Adaption-Innovation Continuum, Occupational Type, and Course Selection

Data on 2,375 subjects collected in 15 independent studies were cross-tabulated with reference to different occupational types and varying degrees of self-selection to courses. The results confirm the 1980 findings of Kirton and of Thomson that mean scores on the Kirton Adaption-Innovation Inventory are more innovative for occupational groups which deal with more numerous and less rigid paradigms. The data also support the hypothesis that groups whose members have themselves taken the initiative to attend courses are on the average more innovative than groups sent by sponsoring organizations. The factors outlined above were additive and subtractive in regular and predictable increments.