Thank you for Being Open

My teacher was open to all aspects of creativity when a project was assigned to us as students. - Alexis

Sometimes the answer is the answer. We don’t need as much creativity in the 2 + 2 type problem as we do in others. There are plenty of times where we do want students to show what is ticking inside their head.  

Especially when so much of the work that is being done is being generated by something other than their unique voice, anytime we can get their personality or their perspective, we should welcome it.  

In Edtech we call it “inviting technology” to the assignment. It works in other classes, of course, and it doesn’t have to be tech. The idea is simple. You share what you want the students to demonstrate, and they deliver that in the format of choice, with guidance, of course. What comes back can be pretty amazing.  

Sure, some kids will always opt for the easy way out, but students like this will leap at the chance to show you what they can do. The really creative ones may not be the ones that excel in traditional classes, but this is their stage, their moment to shine.  

Let’s give them that stage. Let’s give them some freedom to see what they can do. You can’t always say no, so this might be the right moment to say yes.  

I hope they surprise you in the best way today.