Dear Clyde,
In a message dated 96-03-31 16:37:03 EST, you write:
>Interesting observations, John.
>
>It has long been noted that we tend to kill the creative side of a child
>by the time s/he reaches fifth grade or so. That includes setting the
>stage for a loathing of school and anything that resembles or reminds us
>of that experience.
>
>Working to fix this in the adult world of work is difficult. Has anyone
>given thought to how we can fix the next generation before they get
>broken?
>
>Clyde Howell
Yes, a great deal of thought is given constantly to this question by many
intelligent (and generally underfunded, understaffed, overworked) people
in public and higher education. I suspect that a great deal of existing
creativity goes largely untapped in adults, because we don't honor the
process and we create situations that squelch risk-taking behavior. It
doesn't take much, either. Think about the difference in success rates
for women and African Americans who attend all-female or Historically
Black Colleges or Universities compared with those who attend more
"mainstream" institutions where their alternative views may not be so
welcome.
As a newcomer to this field, coming from a background in individual
learning, it seems to me the heart of the matter in learning organizations
is to tap the energy and commitment of creativity directed to a shared,
valued, significant purpose.
For another great perspective on creativity, I recommend David Perkins,
"The Mind's Best Work," Harvard University Press, 1981.
Cheers,
Joanne Gainen
MTD & Associates
Santa Clara, CA
jgainen@aol.com
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