It is our responsibility to nurture creativity, but what happens when our own mental blocks get in the way of our own creative thinking and problem solving? What happens when we become the idea squelchers and creativity blockers? We must look at our own mental blocks that most likely stem from our personal and educational experiences. This week’s reading referred to Roger von Oech’s, (1983) A Whack on the Side of the Head, where he lists ten mental blocks that keep people from stimulating their creative juices. As you read the article did you feel you needed a whack in the head?
This activity identifies ways we suppress creativity in our homes and at schools. Match the type of suppression and its definition to its potential consequence. Click on the daisy to launch the activity.
At this time, stop here and read Habits that Block Creativity. When you have finished reading, continue with the course content.In Summary
There are differences even among highly creative people, and not every creative thinker will be the next Einstein. You, however, can and must remove the blocks, barriers, and creativity squelchers that interfere in the creative process (including your own), recognize and nurture your students’ domains and creative characteristics, and be aware of how cultural norms impact creativity.