Creativity is not just for the arts

Prior to our forum next week, I thought it might be interesting if members considered how creativity and innovation can be nurtured in the STEM subjects since we are having a presentation by Tom Wood and Pete Lowe. This video is a response by Sir Ken Robinson to a Twitter comment:

Does focusing on science and math give students necessary skills and mindsets for innovation? -@reemalmasri

I like the way that Robinson is able to articulate the importance of creativity beyond purely the arts. Below are some of my selected quotes:

"Innovations are driven not only by scientists but also by artists, musicians, philosophers.... and economies depend upon a multiplicity of talents"

"...need to focus on the holistic nature of culture and economic development"

"... it is important that we don't focus on the STEM subjects exclusively as they are part of a matrix of educational disciplines that make education effective"

Creativity is not often discussed at school in the context of economic development and usually only within the context of the creative industries. However, the creative thinking process is behind every business with products and ideas having to have be designed/created - it is therefore it is a very transferable skill that economic prosperity relies upon. Nonetheless, it also raises the issue of whether we should primarily value education as being preparation for economic well-being? However, we also have a duty to young people's cultural, social, spiritual and personal well-being so it is a matter of understanding how best to balance the curriculum/learning environment.

Stoke Newington STEM Project

I came across this interesting video about a recent STEM project day, not dissimilar to our Year 7 event during Theme Days, that was run by Stoke Newington school. Have a look at this video and some of their other videos on vimeo, which are also very interesting.



"The STEM Challenge was a cross curriculum project incorporating Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. The aim of the project was to engage YR 8 female students with the aforementioned and raise attainment in these subject areas."- Victoria Emes, Specialist Schools Team.

Below is a video from a STEM day workshop to encourage girls in Year 7 at Fortismere to consider pathways in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths which Mr Crompton set up to coincide with Theme Days in July 2010 and might be an interesting project to evaluate in one of our CLN Forums, helping to inform the new STEM extra-curricular initiatives being developed: