I recently read a book that I thought I would share with you. It is a book written by Imagineers from Disney on how to create an environment that fosters creativity. This is an amazing book for teachers. Here are my top 10 tips.
1) "The formula is that there is no formula." The number 1 rule: you cannot be fearful of failing. Fear should not even come into the equation. Be confident.
2) Be a "yes" teacher. Children are naturally so much more creative than we are as adults and so many times they have much better ideas than we do for a fun lesson. Inspire them to make their own rules and come up with their own ideas. You will really be surprised with the results.
3) Don't be afraid of visual aids. Students of this generation need to see things. I have found that the more visual aids I provide, the more understanding there is. Blank walls are the enemy!
4) Ask questions instead of providing the answers all the time. I love to respond to a question with another question. It irritates them so much! I think though that it really prompts a conversation that helps them learn.
5) Don't be afraid to find someone who is really creative and learn from them. They will be flattered and your job will be easier. On the flipside, don't be afraid to find someone who is really, super boring. They will inspire you to not want to be like them.
6) Tell stories. Your students will remember more and they will see you are a human too.
7) Think of your class as your "team." If you respect them as somewhat equals, their talent will amaze you.
8) Take the path less traveled, knowing full well you're going to get into trouble for doing it. Not everyone is going to agree with your creative classroom (especially the person whose classroom is near yours).
9) Be more optimistic - it's more fun!
10) Maintain a clear vision.
And one to grow on! Have a life! So many times I gain inspiration for an "out of the box" activity just enjoying my life and not reading "how to be a better teacher" books!
1) "The formula is that there is no formula." The number 1 rule: you cannot be fearful of failing. Fear should not even come into the equation. Be confident.
2) Be a "yes" teacher. Children are naturally so much more creative than we are as adults and so many times they have much better ideas than we do for a fun lesson. Inspire them to make their own rules and come up with their own ideas. You will really be surprised with the results.
3) Don't be afraid of visual aids. Students of this generation need to see things. I have found that the more visual aids I provide, the more understanding there is. Blank walls are the enemy!
4) Ask questions instead of providing the answers all the time. I love to respond to a question with another question. It irritates them so much! I think though that it really prompts a conversation that helps them learn.
5) Don't be afraid to find someone who is really creative and learn from them. They will be flattered and your job will be easier. On the flipside, don't be afraid to find someone who is really, super boring. They will inspire you to not want to be like them.
6) Tell stories. Your students will remember more and they will see you are a human too.
7) Think of your class as your "team." If you respect them as somewhat equals, their talent will amaze you.
8) Take the path less traveled, knowing full well you're going to get into trouble for doing it. Not everyone is going to agree with your creative classroom (especially the person whose classroom is near yours).
9) Be more optimistic - it's more fun!
10) Maintain a clear vision.
And one to grow on! Have a life! So many times I gain inspiration for an "out of the box" activity just enjoying my life and not reading "how to be a better teacher" books!