Literacy
Title: Reflecting on "Do Schools Kill Creativity"
Introduction
As an 8-year Special Education (SPED) teacher, I recently had the opportunity to watch a thought-provoking video on YouTube titled "Do Schools Kill Creativity." The speaker, Sir Ken Robinson, delivered an engaging and humorous talk that resonated with me deeply. Throughout his presentation, Sir Ken emphasized the importance of recognizing the unique talents and creativity of all children, a perspective that holds immense significance for SPED educators like myself.
Recognizing Every Child's Talent
One of the central themes in Sir Ken's talk was the idea that all children possess unique talents and creativity. As a SPED teacher, I couldn't agree more with this notion. Every child, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, has something special to offer. It's our duty as educators to nurture and celebrate these talents, allowing each student to shine in their own way.
Sir Ken's humor and wit brought this message to life, reminding us that creativity is not limited to the arts but is present in various forms. This perspective encourages me to look beyond conventional measures of success and focus on helping my SPED students discover and develop their individual talents.
The Fear of Failure in Education
Sir Ken also touched upon a critical issue in education—the fear of failure. In my experience as a SPED teacher, I've witnessed how this fear can be particularly stifling for students with disabilities. The pressure to conform to rigid educational standards and excel in standardized testing often overshadows the importance of personal growth and development.
Sir Ken's humorous take on this issue resonated with me. He pointed out that education systems tend to prioritize avoiding mistakes over embracing creativity and innovation. This perspective challenges us as SPED teachers to create inclusive and supportive environments where our students can explore, make mistakes, and learn from them without fear.
The Obsession with College Admissions
The speaker also addressed the prevalent obsession with college admissions in our education system. This issue is especially relevant to me as a SPED teacher working with students who may have different post-secondary goals. While college is a valid option for some, it's not the sole measure of success.
Sir Ken's humorous critique of this obsession reminded me of the importance of guiding my SPED students towards pathways that align with their strengths, interests, and abilities, whether that be college, vocational training, or other post-school opportunities.
Dance and Common Core
One of the most memorable moments in the talk was when Sir Ken mentioned how dance is often sidelined in favor of subjects like mathematics and language arts. As a SPED teacher, I understand the importance of adapting teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles. Dance, art, and other creative outlets can be incredibly valuable tools for engaging and educating students with disabilities.
Sir Ken's humor underscored the point that these creative disciplines are not less important than common core subjects; they are equally essential in fostering a well-rounded education for all students, including those in special education.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sir Ken Robinson's talk on "Do Schools Kill Creativity" left a lasting impression on me as a Special Education teacher. His humor, insight, and advocacy for recognizing the diverse talents of all children resonated deeply. This reflection reaffirms my commitment to creating inclusive, fear-free, and creative learning environments for my SPED students.
Sir Ken's message encourages us to rethink the purpose of education, shift away from an obsession with standardized testing and college admissions, and celebrate the unique abilities of each child. As a SPED teacher, I am inspired to continue fostering creativity, individuality, and a love for learning in all my students, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.
Terry Whitaker
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