At risk students are creative misfits. They don’t quite fit into the traditional definition of students. They are in a difficult developmental stage because it’s hard to find out who you are if you don’t fit in; if you are a creative misfit.

Creativity Motivator #75
(6/1/09)
Kathy Goff. EdD

Experiential Learning

Before we begin our traditional learning experiences as children, we are expert learners who use all of our senses and motor capabilities to create. All of us begin life as experiential, creative learners. It seems logical then to believe leaders must validate this process of learning by experience in order to meet the needs of all people, not just those who do well on pre-determined standards.

Creativity Motivator #66 (4/6/09)

Living Creatively

Creative thinking is much more than using our imaginations to invent lots of new ideas. Creative thinking is a lifestyle, a personality trait, a way of looking at the world, a way of interacting with others, and a way of living and growing. Living creatively means developing our talents, tapping our unused potentials and becoming what we are capable of becoming through self-discovery and self-discipline. Anytime we are faced with a problem or dilemma with no learned or practiced solution, some creativity is required (Torrance).

Creativity Motivator #81
(7/13/09)
Kathy Goff. EdD

Supportive Environments

Since creativity involves taking risks and venturing into the unknown, it takes a supportive and nurturing learning environment for creativity to occur. We are more likely to try something new if we think we won’t be embarrassed or ridiculed. Knowing more about our learning differences and styles can assist us in developing environments that are more supportive of the creative spirit.