1. Do schools in the United States systematically destroy (or inhibit) the development of curiosity and/or creativity in students?
Yes we are too concerned with students memorizing information to pass standard tests. They are soaking in information, but they are not doing anything with the information. So eventually they forget the majority of what they have learned. They are rewarded with good grades when they do well on the tests and then they move on to the next set of tests. They are not allowed to explore and come up with their own ideas and opinions. As preschoolers we are taught not to color outside of the lines. Students are not challenged to apply what they have learned to solving problems or making something worthwhile.
2. Can a curriculum be developed that increases the curiosity of students?
Yes, the curriculum should consist of things they can relate to in their daily lives. Ideas that they are interested in or could help with challenges that they face in school or at home. Incorporating games or other technology could really spark their interest.
3. Can a teacher's actions increase the curiosity of students?
Yes, by challenging, motivating, and promoting class participation and collaboration.
4. Can a curriculum be developed that increases the creativity of students?
Project-based learning would be the key component to the curriculum. Instead of the teacher giving the student information to absorb, the student is actually performing a task. By doing a hands on type assignment the student will be more engaged in the learning process. The student will also retain more knowledge and will be better prepared for the future.
5. What would help you become more creative?
What role would teachers and/or schools have in that process?
By given me a challenge or a project to complete using unconditional methods. EDM310 has been a challenge. It has not been like any other class that I have taken. I have communicated and collaborated with other students. I have had an audience of my peers, other teachers and even kids. Instead of teachers telling students how something works they should let their students demonstrate how something works. By doing so, they will have a better understanding and will remember what they have learned. They will then be able to teach someone else.
6. What would help you become more curious?
What role would teachers and/or schools have in that process?
Teachers can help student become more curious by making their lessons fun. They can find what their students interests are. They can help them relate to what they are learning and how it can be applied to the real world. They can encourage them to explore and try to look beyond the surface and try to figure out what lies beneath.
"EDM310 has been a challenge." Ah, yes. And you are right. That is what i intended!
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