Why Do We Need To Foster Creativity?
We can't use up creativity, the more we use, the more we have.

One of the numerous possible ways to define creativity is the ability to solve problems by thinking of uncommon or unique solutions. By this definition, being creative requires practical stimulation found in both mathematics classes as well as in art classes. In order to solve the worldwide issue of a lack of creativity, schools must begin to teach classes that foster and reinforce the dying trait.

True Creativity

True creativity lies in innovation and invention. It is not merely a matter of creative expression, the result of the creativity must serve a purpose or solve an issue. Creativity is actually a combination of several, more narrowly-defined traits such as intelligence, tenacity, and problem-solving ability. These all combine with the most important characteristic, creative thinking, to make for someone truly creative. It can be said then, that being creative has multiple steps. There must be the creative thinking compounded with a mind for problem-solving to formulate a new solution. Following that must be the tenacity to work through countless trial and errors, with the intelligence to arrive at a functioning final version of the creation. Art classes have been proven to cultivate such creative processes on many levels other than art. See research studies.

Importance of Creativity

The importance of innovative-minded creativity, that is, creativity geared towards new inventions or a more efficient way of meeting goals, is apparent throughout history. It can be said that any revolutionary invention, such as the telephone, is a result of creativity. Prior to the phone, the only way to communicate over long distances was written letters or through the telegraph. Thus, Alexander Graham Bell had to devise an entirely new way of communication nobody before him had even thought possible, showing his creative mind and problem-solving capabilities. Bell’s tenacity was tried as he made numerous attempts to create his working telephone and worked through many failures. Also owing itself to Bell’s creativity is his ability to find a way to make his invention work and to make it viable, revealing his intelligence. Art classes provide an outlet learning to deal with setbacks and successes. The brain not only becomes more flexible in almost all areas of thinking, but assists children and adults alike to deal with problem solving and overcoming obstacles.

Push For More Creativity

To push for more creative-minded students who will eventually become creative-minded employees, schools must give students classes that are creativity-geared and parents can help their children by arranging creative art classes, be it for music, visual arts or performing arts. These classes would teach and reinforce the qualities of creativity and would include problem-solving techniques as well as training students how to think creatively. Group and class activities would be focused on solving issues in the most efficient manner possible as well as thinking abstractly. Students would take these skills into the work world and creativity would bloom.

Most Valuable Asset

Innovative-minded creativity is now arguably the world’s most valuable asset, especially with the rise of engineering and STEM careers that are becoming more and more avenues for success. Students wishing to enter these fields must have innate creative problem-solving skills to function well in their careers. Therefore, innovative creativity must be fostered and reinforced, which all begins in schools. Classes geared towards creativity are smart and looking to the future, as they meet the demands of the job world, and are thus inherently necessary.

Martina Pook

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