Eliciting creativity in every student in the classroom can be a realistic goal for classroom teachers. The teaching of creativity embraces form and structure as well as freedom of thought and expression. It is very appropriate to provide the student with an imaginative and creative impetus with which he/she cannot only create or establish the…

Three educational leaders--Robert Quackenbush, Geraldine Siks, and David A. Sohn--offer reflections on recent developments regarding activities that stimulate children's creativity, their hopes for the 1980s, and recommended books for teachers. (AEA)

The author critically examines nine assumptions about creativity commonly held by preservice elementary art teachers, such as "all children have creativity,""creativity can be taught and learned,""art skills hinder creativity," and "creativity is good." (SJL)

This paper examines the nature of creativity and the nourishing of children's creativity. One definition of creativity focuses on two of its aspects, of novelty and usefulness. Other definitions that stress one or the other of these aspects are discussed. According to M. Rhoades (1961), the four components of creativity are: (1) people--their…

Discusses several ways computers, software, and peripheral equipment may aid in teaching dyslexic children to read, i.e., using voice synthesizers and speech software; employing human readers to translate what's on the screen; utilizing word processing functions; using microcomputers to control tape recorders; and utilizing "creativity…

Recounts a personal experience as a first grader to illustrate the point that teachers must remember to encourage rather than stifle students' creativity. (NH)

Eliciting creativity in every student in the classroom can be a realistic goal for classroom teachers. Teaching creatively can include: embracing a student-centered learning approach; using thematic approaches to content area subjects, which also promotes motivation; using a cooperative learning group process; and utilizing creative arts.…

Discusses the concept of teacher as coach for 11- to 14-year-old Montessori students writing poetry. Notes the children's need for nurturing at this sensitive age and the coach's process of acknowledging the universal and poetic in them. Presents samples of children's poetry to show how development and self-expression are fundamental partners in…

Argues that, as the world becomes increasingly less human and more technocratic, staying in contact with whatever is humane requires conscious effort. Suggests the use of poetry writing assignments as a means of preserving children's inventiveness and imagination. Provides examples of poems written by schoolchildren. (SG)

This discussion of the need for learning activities which promote critical thinking skills, creativity, and affective growth in children uses Bloom's Taxonomy as a guide for designing such activities based on children's literature. Several examples of projects based on specific children's books are provided. (CLB)

Writing researchers suggest that children should write stories in order to (1) entertain, (2) foster artistic expression, (3) explore the functions and values of writing, (4) stimulate imagination, (5) clarify thinking, (6) search for identity, and (7) learn to read and write. (HTH)

The author offers these suggestions for increasing the creative component of elementary fine arts education: In art, encourage drawing, not just crafts; in music, use classical and folk music, as well as popular songs; for physical development, deemphasize team sports in favor of fitness and creative movement. (SJL)

Discusses the connections between Montessori pedagogy and Brian Swimme's ideas of a human authorship of a connection with the evolution of the universe and a need to reestablish a connection with the natural world. Describes the ways the art of 11- and 12-year-old students demonstrates an awareness of these issues and a connection with the natural…

Nonlinear imagination-based thinking draws on intuition to allow insight into the unseen realms that govern everyday life. Largely abandoned by Western education in favor of materialist rationalism, this faculty is being promoted by a sustainability center in Montpelier (Vermont) that demonstrates methods of harmonizing thinking, learning, and…

Describes the development and growth of a program at a new York City public elementary school called Growing a Story: A Theatrical Exploration of Imagination for Literacy Enrichment. This arts educational program fosters students' pride of ownership, self-esteem, and interdependence through improvised creation and performance of original…