“Creativity is a great motivator because it makes people interested in what they are doing. Creativity gives hope that there can be a worthwhile idea. Creativity gives the possibility of some sort of achievement to everyone. Creativity makes life more fun and more interesting.” – Edward de Bono, the father of lateral thinking and creativity.
Everyone has creative capabilities as a natural result of being human. The challenge, as Ken Robinson states in his book “Out of our Minds: Learning to Be Creative,” is to challenge and develop a culture of creativity which has to involve everybody not just a select few.
Why is Creativity Crucial?
- It allows students to unleash their imagination, and discover things that make them come alive. Simply put, creativity is fun and can inspire individuals.
- Creativity prepares students for a life in a rapidly changing world. With the technology revolution, there will be more jobs that will have to be created, and new ways of conducting everyday life.
- It enriches peoples lives, allowing for personal and societal discoveries.
- Creativity allows for visions to be shared, and dreams to be shared.
- It can create inventions that are can become valuable contributions to society.
- Creativity awakens the student to become critical thinkers.
- Creativity enlightens students, and can give them more opportunity.
- Creativity allows the mind to be free, and produces lifetime learners and free thinkers.
- Creativity builds confidence.
How can Creativity be Promoted in the Classroom?
Below are links to articles that describe the different methods in which creativity can be used in learning.
- 30 Things You can Do To Promote Creativity in Your Classroom
- 21st Century Skills: Promoting Creativity and Innovation
Odyssey of the Mind: an international educational program that provides creative problem-solving opportunities for students from kindergarten through college.