Across+Cultures+&+Education

Across Cultures & Education: The following was originally published September 5, 2011 at @http://nenacon.blogspot.com/2011/09/21st-century-education.html 21st century education is not about equipment, it’s about approaches. It’s about putting the learner at the heart of their learning and allowing/enabling them to use the equipment you have in creative and collaborative ways. (Doug Woods, Working with what you’ve got)

In mentioning creativity in connection with teaching there is a need, I believe, to put some art in our work. The reason for this is the fact that art has always proved to be a positive stimulant in our lives. Aristotle said that if we familiarize and train our children in art they will develop a critical eye and will be less tolerant towards ugliness. Some go even further to say that it is a natural curiosity and art that has helped develop the human brain. To what extend, then, has art shaped us and the world around us? And, if art is that powerful, can it be used as part of our teaching tools to effect changes that will help future generations adapt to the new reality they are experiencing?