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Mastering Creative Thinking: For Future Educators

In the rapidly evolving landscape of education, the demand for creative and innovative educators has never been higher. Dr. Ken Robinson’s insights underscore the urgency of cultivating individuals capable of navigating the complexities of our globalized world. To meet this demand, educators must not only understand the importance of fostering creative thinking in learners but also master the art of creative teaching themselves.

Why is it critical to teach learners to be creative thinkers?

Dr. Ken Robinson, a leading expert in education, pointed out that businesses worldwide were desperately seeking individuals who possessed creativity, innovation, and flexibility. Despite substantial investments in developing creativity, a gap persisted between the demand for creative thinkers and the supply. Robinson argued for a shift from an industrial model of education to an organic, agricultural one, recognizing that human development is an organic process with unpredictable outcomes. Unfortunately, Dr. Ken Robinson is no longer with us, but his insights continue to resonate in the field of education.

Can we teach Creativity?

The age-old debate on whether creativity can be taught is a critical starting point. Our 21st Century Creative Thinking course explores strategies and methods to nurture creative thinking skills in learners, challenging the notion that creativity is an inherent trait. By providing practical insights, we aim to empower educators to unlock and cultivate the creative potential within each student.


Ground Rules for Creative Thinking

Understanding the fundamental principles and ground rules for fostering creative thinking is pivotal for educators. This course introduces essential guidelines with real-world examples to illustrate each ground rule. By creating an environment that encourages creative thinking, educators can pave the way for a future generation of innovative minds.

Classroom Rules for Creative Thinking

To bring creative thinking into the classroom, specific guidelines are essential. This course provides actionable strategies for educators to implement, ensuring a conducive atmosphere for creative exploration. Tips for applying these rules effectively are included, promoting an interactive and engaging learning experience.

Divergent Thinking Tools

Divergent thinking, a key aspect of creative thinking, is explored in detail. We delve into the definition and explanation of divergent thinking and introduce tools and techniques that enhance this critical skill. Emphasizing flexibility and the ability to generate alternative courses of action, this course equips educators with practical approaches to foster creativity.

Ready to Unlock Your Creative Potential?

Explore the transformative “21st Century Creative Thinking” course to delve deeper into the world of creative teaching. Gain practical insights, engage with a community of educators, and discover how to inspire the next generation of innovative thinkers. Embrace the journey towards mastering creative thinking in education. Enroll now and be part of a movement shaping the future of education.

READ MORE ABOUT THE COURSE:

21st Century Creative Thinking in the Foundation Phase
21st Century Creative Thinking in the Intermediate and Senior Phase

RIDDLE:
I have keys but open no locks,
I have space but no room,
You can enter, but you can’t go inside.
What am I?

ANSWER:
A keyboard

Cathy

Cathy Fry has over 30 years of teaching and training experience in South Africa. She was principal two top independent junior girls’ schools in Johannesburg. Cathy’s expertise lies in ECD and primary education as well as whole school improvement and curriculum development. Cathy has been involved in teacher development and bursary programmes for disadvantaged children throughout her career in independent schools. She was a long standing member of the ISASA (Independent Schools Association of South Africa) Curriculum Development Programme as well as a member of the SAHISA (Southern African Heads of Independent Schools Association) Council, representing junior schools throughout South Africa.

Cathy is highly qualified with a B.Ed from London University in 1977, a Diploma in Remedial Education from UNISA, a Masters in Philosophy, Second Language Acquisition, from Stellenbosch and a Master’s in Education from the University of the Witwatersrand in 2012. Cathy has also attended the Leadership Development Programme at the Wits Business School and is a registered assessor and moderator with the Service and ETDP SETAS. In 2012 she completed a Foundations in Coaching Course, online, from GET Smarter.

After setting up her own company, Ukhanyiso Ebantwini, in 2012 Cathy has worked in both independent and state schools running a series of teacher development workshops. Her company is a service provider for SACE and has several SETA accredited qualifications. Cathy has developed online teacher training materials in 21st Century teaching and learning, study skills and leadership and management. She has worked with NPOs in Diepsloot, Tembisa, Modimolle and Johannesburg facilitating school leadership and management workshops, coaching and mentoring School Management Teams and running accredited ECD teacher development. She is an accredited facilitator for the British Council and an accredited Expert Facilitator in Instructional Leadership. Cathy also works for Umalusi doing desk top evaluations for independent schools and she is a level 1 trainer in Philosophy for Children (P4C) in South Africa.

Cathy’s passion for education, self-motivation and drive have been at the forefront of her success in independent schools and in the development of her own company. Cathy has been hard of hearing since contracting Chicken Pox at 17.

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