Creativity is conspicuous by its absence
It may be notoriously difficult to define creativity but it is still possible to point to where it exists or is missing. Love and intelligence, like most abstract concepts, also defy tight definition but we can discuss their presence or absence.
I could point Tom Bennett (who wrote “Creative accounting”, Feature, 10 October) to a school with little creativity - one that a friend of mine left after being told to drill a Reception class in literacy and numeracy all day. Children I know at other primaries never do art or design and technology. Writing is reduced to learning how to demonstrate prescribed features of syntax; numeracy to times tables. There is no creativity here. I could also point Mr Bennett to schools that do encourage a creative approach to learning. Thankfully, the institution where I am chair of governors is one.
Creativity may be a concept with a blurred and fluid definition but it can nevertheless be squashed or promoted. I cheer those like Sir Ken Robinson who promote creativity, since I believe it is necessary for both the individual and society to flourish.
Sandra Palmer
ManchesterShort and tweet
Am feeling rather weary of technology being blamed for making children anti-social. I see so much interaction, all over the place.
@jackiemarsh
Another one of those things that we (over-40s) remember but are going or gone: the four-photo photo booth.
@CairneyPaul
Change can be frightening but it can also set us free. To resist change is to hold on. To accept change is to let go. #reasonstomeditate
@Get_Headspace
“I was a student, but I was told by my lecturer I couldn’t be a HND student and care for my dad.” Call for change. #CareFairShare
@OfficialSYP
A good campus cop is a phenomenal asset. Know many in Edinburgh, huge role in prevention, mentoring and are good role models.
@karynmccluskey
Morning all. Back to work after two weeks’ leave and 549 unread emails. How many will ever be read? #LoveHE
@ian_c_elliott
“You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.”
@Dr_SeussFreak
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