The digest explores the nature of the creative process. It begins with background information which notes the importance of seeing the familiar in a new light and the possibility on non-acceptance of the creative act. Four basic abilities necessary for creativity and problem solving are identified: (1) fluency, (2) flexibility, (3) elaboration,…

Classroom teachers can provide more creative opportunities in the classroom by providing an atmosphere of psychological safety and by presenting material that encourages divergent thinking. Examples of the bull's eye strategy, brainstorming, and checklisting activities to stimulate imaginative ideas are offered. (CL)

With the encouragement of parents and teachers, many young people would raise more questions than they typically do about nature. Examples of questions about animals which might lead to creative, thought-provoking discussions and explorations are offered. (CB)

Defines creativity by exploring the four components of creativity: person, product, process, and persistence. Illustrates the characteristics of the creative person and examines blocks to creativity. Applies the creativity concepts to music education. (RW)

The authors assert that history can be approached from a creative perspective; the student need not merely report what has already been written. Instead, students may make an original contribution by becoming a practicing historian. Strategies and examples of ideas to motivate students toward this level of productivity are described. (Author/CL)

This book explores creativity in the context of education, focusing on what creativity is, how it works, and how it can be fostered. The book sets forth general principles for encouraging creativity in schools, higher education, and the family. The chapters are: (1) "Creativity: Basic Concepts"; (2) "The Role of Thinking in Creativity"; (3)…

A teacher describes how she uses storytelling in her fifth grade classes, because storytelling combines listening skills and imagination with the nuances of language, history, culture, and values. Resources are listed. Two insets discuss the benefits of storytelling and offer tips on becoming a storytelling teacher. (MT)

Explains that an important aspect of dance history is lost by not recording dance rehearsals. Argues that recording rehearsals can reveal the creative process and illuminate the environment that engendered this art form. Concludes that a transformed dance history will influence curriculum development. (GG)

This paper explores definitions of creativity, theories and models of creativity, and the classic stages of creativity. Creativity is best defined in terms of an interactive process. The creative process in adults often results in creative and useful products, and such creativity is judged in terms of their quantity and quality of patents,…

This document summarizes a study attempting to understand the critical skill of creative visioning. In the study, 20 people who were involved in creativity or creative visioning were interviewed for 1.5-4 hours. Seven central themes emerged from the interviews: (1) the meaning of creative visioning; (2) trusting; (3) imagination; (4) connections;…

Suggestions for developing creative and original science fairs include trying new categories, issuing a challenge, and involving the community. (DF)

Ideas for teaching children about creativity and its importance are offered in this article. Ingredients for developing creativity skills are presented and suggested projects are discussed. (DF)

Offers a systematic approach to creative learning in music through an analysis of the components of complex learning and creative activity. Outlines goals for fostering creative learning in music education, and delineates person, process, and product objectives. Suggests methods of evaluating creativity. (RW)

Defining creativity as a process that draws upon talents, education, skills, thinking and working styles, and inherent intelligence, and pinpointing motivation as the single most important ingredient in the creativity recipe, this book provides dozens of concrete, hands-on exercises and techniques that can help a parent or teacher keep creativity…

Uses a case-study approach to examine the role of belief as a catalytic quality in the artistic making and the thinking processes used by children. Describes the processes encountered by children when presented with artistic tasks. Discusses the relationship between belief and the three other main dimensions of artistic thinking and making: social…