Schools might be missing the mark when it comes to fostering creativity in young minds, but steps are being taken to ensure the next generation can think outside the box. Brad Hokanson, a University of Minnesota professor, emphasized the importance of creativity in modern education, insisting it's correlated with success more strongly than raw intelligence. In an interview with the university’s publication, Hokanson stated that creativity is "the distinguishing factor that sets someone apart from the crowd."
Hokanson, who teaches graphic design, pointed out that the curriculum focus in schools should not just pivot but dynamically shift to also include the development of creative skills. But often, the pressure to cover content leaves little room for innovative thought. "The only wrong answer is one answer," he said, according to the University of Minnesota.
Families also play a critical role in cultivating creativity at home, Hokanson advised. He argued for a rich variety of experiences outside the classroom. This can range from encouraging kids to attend cultural events, get out into nature, or simply setting aside time for them to draw, make, or craft — much like students do in the University’s Breakerspace workshop.
When it comes to the digital world's effects on creativity, Hokanson suggests screen time can indeed have an impact. Speaking to the implications of technology use in children's development, he warned of the difference between passive and active engagement. He reinforced this by citing MIT learning researcher Mitch Resnick, who questioned, "Would you rather that your children learn to play the piano or learn to play the stereo?", as per the University of Minnesota.
Back in the academic sphere, Hokanson is actively involved in projects that aim to infuse schools with creative verve. He boasts a massive open online course on the subject, with an enrolment figure standing at around 248,000 people. In addition to this, his doctoral student Stephanie Heidorn is testing an after-school curriculum focused on fourth graders. The University's College in the Schools program is another testament to this creative push, where local high school students are seeing their creative capabilities skyrocket, according to data cited by Hokanson.
