Creativity and Learning

The pamphlet reviews research on creativity and applies it to the learning process. After discussing the definition and measurement of creativity, the components of creative performance are outlined, including domain-relevant skills, creativity-relevant skills, and intrinsic task motivation. Factors which destroy students' creativity are noted, such as having children work for an expected reward, setting up competitive situations, having children focus on expected evaluation, using plenty of surveillance, and setting up restricted-choice situations. Strategies for nurturing and encouraging intrinsic motivation and creativity in classroom settings are explored. A bibliography and a list of resources on thinking skills conclude the pamphlet. (PB)