Sir Ken Robinson's speech "Changing Paradigms,"made many powerful points on our current educational system. He spoke about how our schools have taught for economic utility and how we have a school curriculum that teaches what we feel are useful subjects. (Reading, Math) He also spoke of connecting people with their talents, which I see so important! Also, that people do their best when they do the thing they love! I agreed strongly with this and also the need for teaching Divergent Thinkers. I thought the information he gave on Kindergarten students was also very powerful! I look at my own 5 year old and think of how imaginative and creative she is! How do we continue to ignite that love of learning and to drive her curiosity of the world around her? When does it change for students? Is it the push we have for teaching what we feel are important subjects? What can we do to teach students to drive forward? The information on ADHD was also very interesting and the map he showed. Kids are intensely stimulated in the world around them. I constantly am trying to figure out ways to engage my struggling readers when they do not want to sit and read. (Brain Breaks and Movement!) So, lets find ways to reach our creative minds and "Get a move on!"
Here is a link for this video.
I also found myself trying to read what RSA stood for as I was watching the video. (Royal Society for the Encouragement of the Arts)
Maybe if we give them time to find the answers and opportunities where they may be able to find multiple answers it could encourage more divergent thinkers. I found myself today trying to figure out how to stop giving the answer to them, but instead helping them discover how to find the answers. I agree with you Katie!! Let's be creative :)
ReplyDeleteI have the same struggle of sometimes feeling like I am giving answers too much. I've always wondered what a day would be like where I just didn't talk much at all. Not sure how I would set that up but it's an interesting idea. Would they take ownership of their learning? Would they try and solve problems on their own? For some I think they would and for others I think it would be a rough day. Maybe we need to hush a bit and let them do the talking.
ReplyDeleteI also worry about my own children and what will happen when they enter school. I don't want that curiosity and love of learning new things to go away.
You forgot to mention adorable when you described your daughter Just sayin'.
ReplyDelete