This issue of ENC Focus focuses on the topic of inquiry and problem solving. Featured articles include: (1) "Inquiry in the Everyday World of Schools" (Ronald D. Anderson); (2) "In the Cascade Reservoir Restoration Project Students Tackle Real-World Problems" (Clint Kennedy with Advanced Biology Students from Cascade High…

This book integrates traditional understandings of care of the dying and bereaved with the use of arts and other forms of cultural creativity in therapy and funeralization. Authors provide insights into the practical aspects of caring for the dying and bereaved as well as new understandings of creativity. Chapters include: (1) "The Knowledge…

The National Priorities, published in 2001, highlight important outcomes of education in Scotland. National Priority 5 sets a clear expectation that teachers will "encourage creativity and ambition" in their pupils. "A Curriculum for Excellence" also stresses that pupils need to be able to "think creatively and…

This bulletin has been prepared to help teachers and parents understand the contribution of creative expression in the all-around development of children. In order to achieve balance among the various learning activities, a school program needs to give appropriate emphasis to the creative arts. Because all the arts are closely related, a broader,…

This study attempted to explain the effects of two different approaches to classroom decision-making on elementary school children's attitudes, motor skills, self-concept, and creativity. Allowing children to share in making classroom decisions had a more positive effect on them than being in a teacher-dominated classroom. (Authors/PP)

The focus of five articles is the impact of the computer on art and art education. Included is a discussion of the need for computer literacy among art students, computer graphics as a new subject matter and as an art technique, computer managed instruction, and creative computers. (RM)

It is suggested that the right hemisphere of the brain--the creative, visual, imaginative--is being ignored in today's classroom, and ways of correcting this are presented. It is in this way that humanistic qualities may be established in existing curriculum. (KC)

Even in an educational tests and measurements classroom it is possible to stimulate student creativity and divergent thinking. Examples of projects and test constructions are given to provide food for thought for the creative teacher. (JN)

Summarizes research studies published since 1960 which provide comparative data on Black and White adolescents. Topics covered include academic achievement, development, creativity, achievement motivation, locus of control, self-concept, personality, aspirations, attitudes and beliefs, and mass media use patterns. (GC)

Interconnects numerous conceptual threads in the field of giftedness, such as performance, achievement, competence, outcomes, metacognition, creativity, and making connections. Addresses the influence of different factors on the progressive nature of talent development and the need to differentiate curriculum. (CR)

This article argues that, if creativity is measured by outcomes, then basic forms of reasoning (deduction, induction, abduction, specialization/generalization, and elementary memory associations) can be considered mildly creative. The claim is backed by references to computer programs that have generated creative outcomes. Limitations of this…

Business leaders are taking on a new role in school improvement. Advocates of arts education must understand the concerns business leaders have about schools, and develop effective solutions. Concerns include developing creativity and productivity for the competitive global economy, setting educational standards, and developing meaningful new…

Outlines a process in which art is used to connect and focus the creative energy of students. Presents a step-by-step format for the project and the materials that will be needed. Suggests ways to help students prepare their self-portraits, gives display tips, and provides testimonials concerning the project. (RJM)

Examines the historical role of aesthetics in higher education and student affairs. Argues that aesthetic perception provides an alternative way of thinking about student development, cultural diversity, and the assessment of programs. Such values can add passion and vision to student affairs leadership and enable individuals to develop emotional…

Suggests ways to increase creativity in individuals and in team members who are involved with developing video productions. Topics discussed include freedom of expression; setting goals and objectives; visualization; laser video discs; instant cameras; the function of evaluation; and the impact of technological developments on audience…