Book Description

This book offers an accessible introduction and a comprehensive guide to a range of ideas on creativity in education. The book provides an overview of the major theories related to creativity and explores the implications for policy and practice. The popular topic of creativity has given rise to a large number of theoretical positions, sometimes contradictory or contested. This book clarifies and organises these approaches so that teachers understand where particular pedagogical and curricular practices originate and can develop them coherently. Topics covered include: Creativity in a social context Creativity and technology Creativity and curriculum planning Assessment and creativity Group creativity Managing creativity Tools of creativity The creative learner Creativity and cognition Creativity as expression Approaches to Creativity is an invaluable resource for those who wish to reflect on creativity and explore and engage in the modern discourse of education. It will be of value in teacher education, postgraduate studies, curriculum design and administration. "I’m thrilled to see a book aimed at helping teachers deepen their understanding of creativity and, at the same time, offering practical insights for how teachers might nurture creativity in their everyday curriculum." Professor Ronald A. Beghetto, Associate Dean and Associate Professor of Education, University of Oregon, USA “At a time when many books designed to help us rethink big issues distract by their priestly tone and their pretensions to having found a solution, this is refreshingly clear, new and open.” Professor John Onians, Emeritus Professor of World Art History, University of East Anglia, England “It is a rare book which manages to combine deep scholarship with readability. This one achieves that goal while also being timely and relevant. It should be read by all busy teachers who are concerned to apply research about creativity into their teaching practice.” Professor John Panter, Ex-Head of Academic Staff Development, University of Wollagong, Australia “This excellent overview of creativity is consistent with what the social and behavioral sciences tells us about creativity but is an easy read and perhaps more than anything else is enormously practical. Approaches to Creativity is, in short, accessible yet grounded in science. It presents both the broad context for creativity as a part of human effectiveness, as well as the nuts-and-bolts fine points that will allow everyone to learn something about themselves and about fulfilling creative potentials.” Mark A. Runco, PhD Torrance Professor, Creative Studies & Gifted Education Editor, Creativity Research Journal “As an educationalist and policy-maker, I am pleased to recommend this comprehensive and exciting book which clearly outlines international developments in creativity education, including in particular, the Russian contribution to the field.” Professor Nadezhda Shaidenko, Deputy Chair of the Education Committee of the Duma of the Russian Federation “This book takes the complexity of creativity research and breaks it down into readable and interesting prose. Teachers – and everyone else – will enjoy and learn from this valuable contribution.” Professor J.C.Kaufman, Professor of Psychology, California State University, USA “If it is possible to pin down the lightning flash of creativity then this book is the best attempt I have read so far.” Mark Patrick Hederman, OSB Abbot of Glenstal Abbey, Murroe, Co. Limerick, Ireland