STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) is an educational approach that is now accompanied by the STEAM (STEM + Arts) variant. Both educational approaches seek to renew the scientific literacy of younger generations, and, with the inclusion of the arts, student creativity is described as a key skill that must receive special…

The author examines various definitions of creativity, from broad global statements to narrow views of testable traits. Concluding that none of these definitions can be operationalized in education, he suggests that educators concentrate on more definable components of creativity, such as critical thinking, aesthetics, and the imagination. (SJL)

Research relating to the relationship between hemispheric specialization and creativity is explored with particular emphasis on implications for elementary education. Physiological and psychological evidence is examined for the construct that hemispheric specialization means that the two hemispheres of the human brain are specialized for different…

Identifies four characteristics of the creative endeavor: (1) musical imagination; (2) model of the creative process; (3) measures of creative aptitude; and (4) the observation of creative behavior. Examines the role of technology in creativity, and contends that creative thinking can be measured. Includes suggested readings. (RW)

Reviews theory and research on the relationship between humor and creativity. Briefly describes two Israeli projects aimed at encouraging humor creativity in adolescents and at teaching teachers to use humor to foster creativity. (FMW)

Evaluations of creativity training programs are described: (1) Productive Thinking; (2) Purdue Creative Thinking; (3) Parnes; (4) Myers-Torrance workbooks; and (5) Khatena. Conceptual and methodological problems are discussed. Although gains on tests of divergent thinking have been noted, it is unclear whether these programs improve real-life…