How to Support Creativity in the Classroom

Creativity is a key element to incorporate into learning at every level. What’s not always so easy? Creating assignments and an environment where creativity is not just allowed, but where it actually abounds. Here are a few tips to help you foster creativity with your students:

Create the right kind of space. It should be bright, colorful, warm, and welcoming. Beyond the aesthetics, make sure your space makes kids feel safe. A safe learning space produces the best results.
Give students as many options as possible for projects. Instead of insisting that your entire classroom creates one type of assignment, give them a list of choices. This allows each student to select something that they’re good at, something that they feel passionate about and a chance for their creative juices to take off.
Create your own. In addition to allowing students to make choices in their work, allow an option for students to create their own assignment.
Promote courage. Henri Matisse said, “Creativity takes courage.” Very often, creativity requires students to step outside of their comfort zone. Make sure they feel comfortable doing so by not permitting students to make fun of each other or their work.
Share examples. Every time a student turns in a project that makes you say, “WOW!” – save it! Show it to students the next semester or school year. This helps students get ideas and understand your expectations.
Focus on the process, more than the result. At first glance, this seems to go against the idea of creative output, but the process of learning isn’t always neat, tidy, and beautiful. Your students will be able to put their own spin on things when they know the process is more valued than the result.

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