To begin to study creativity, we must consider convergent versus divergent thinking. Our educational systems have long sought to teach students how to answer questions. What is the right answer? In most traditional teaching-learning situations, major emphasis is placed on locating or converging on correct responses. The real problems humanity confronts in teaching-learning situations do not have these kinds of predetermined or “pat” answers. Rather, they require creative solutions. Divergent production provides opportunities for students to practice letting their minds range far and wide over a broad spectrum of possible solutions to open-ended questions or problems.
I have spent five decades studying and writing about creativity. While the field continues to progress, very much of what was written 40-50 years ago remains completely relevant today. I have curated this path for you to dive deep into what creativity is, how to develop it, assess it, and considering creativity in very special groups of people. Enjoy your exploration as you dive in and consider your own creativity!
True Creativity! Exploring A Broad Range of Solutions
Creative children and adults are often times the originators and sparks for major movement in our society. Within the realm of gifted education, creativity is one of the most critical aspects of identifying a student (or young adult learner). The activities listed below will showcase the Three-Ring Concept of Giftedness as well as how to identify and develop these skills in children. Sir Ken Robinson headlines the final activity in this section with his Ted talk on the extraordinary abilities of all children and how the unpredictability of the future should inspire us all to truly promote the creative genius within our society.
How do we develop creativity in our youth? One way is to foster key experiences for them as they develop through the life cycle. Most children and adults can trace the moment their interest was peaked back to specific moments which usually involve an experience where they were connected to something (like nature) and where their creativity was stimulated. The activities below will shed a light on ways with can spark their interests with meaningful experiences.
One of the biggest challenges within the process of schooling is how we assess knowledge. Typically, assessment styles do not consider other ways we come to know and understand our world. A common theme discussed in the following activities is how many opportunities we miss because we have a limited view of what success looks like. The links below will inspire you to open your mind in order to perceive the depths of a child's abilities.
People who display imagination, creativity, and innovation have changed the world. It is for this reason that my work over the years has focused on providing the opportunities, resources, and encouragement that develop these characteristics in young people and adults. The resources below will assist you in furthering your studies on the topics discussed above and see how we can impact the potential held in untapped communities. Enjoy.
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Creativity for Everybody by Kathryn Haydon
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The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds
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Creating Innovators by Tony Wagner
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The Creative Potential Among Special Groups
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Creativity, Divergent Thinking, & Executive Functioning
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Scoring Digital Creativity Assessments
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Problems in the Assessment of Creative Thinking
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Developing Creativity Across All Areas of the Curriculum
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The Effectiveness of a Creativity Training Program
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Development and Evaluation of a Creativity Training Program
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