Habits of Mind: #11 CREATE, IMAGINE & INNOVATE

George Kneller said, “To think creatively, we must be able to look afresh at what we normally take for granted.”

All human beings have the capacity to generate novel, original, clever or ingenious products, solutions, and techniques—if that capacity is developed. Creative human beings try to conceive problem solutions differently, examining alternative possibilities from many angles. They tend to project themselves into different roles using analogies, starting with a vision and working backward, imagining they are the objects being considered. Creative people take risks and frequently push the boundaries of their perceived limits.

They are intrinsically rather than extrinsically motivated, working on the task because of the aesthetic challenge rather than the material rewards. Creative people are open to criticism. They hold up their products for others to judge and seek feedback in an ever-increasing effort to refine their technique.

Students, however, are often heard saying, “I can’t draw,” “I was never very good at art,” “I can’t sing a note,” “I’m not creative”. Some people believe creative humans are just born that way; in their genes and chromosomes. This is far from the truth. Being creative is something that they must work at, not something they are born with.

Project Term in Grade 7 provides the boys with so many wonderful opportunities to use their creative and critical thinking skills.

We need to help our children see that there are many ways to generate ideas and solve problems. Let’s help them take risks and push themselves so that they grow.