By Yvonna Graham, M.Ed.
Ken Robinson Did a Wonderful TED Talk
Whether you read this book or not, please watch the 20 minute TED talk: Ken Robinson: Do schools kill creativity? Twenty minutes feels like about 5 minutes. Sir Ken Robinson is a profoundly good speaker. He’s funny. He delivers on real information about improving public schools. If you are a teacher or tutor who wants to understand how public school could change for the better, watch the TED talk and then read the book.
I was so impressed by this book that I hosted a community education panel at my local college. I engaged as many people as possible in the conversation Robinson is trying to start. Representatives of public, private, charter and parochial schools attended, and the result was increased cooperation and respect between all parties. It helped re-focus educators in our small town on the needs of the individual student instead of just test results.
Ideas Worth Causing Trouble Over
Robinson states, “If we are to find our way and make learning, not grading, the primary focus of school, then we need to abandon our mania for reducing learning and people to numbers.” Robinson doesn’t just rant about testing and grades; he doesn’t even say we should ditch them entirely. He gives examples of how real teachers and schools have made changes that focus on students’ joy in learning and provide enriched opportunities for students as well as more satisfaction for teachers.
What Can One Parent or Teacher Do?
Robinson’s love for students and teachers permeates this book. He says, “Our children are always sending signals about who they are becoming. It is critical for us as parents and teachers to be vigilant and to pay attention.” Robinson follows up this statement with practical ideas on how parents and teachers can attend to the growing child in a way that affirms individuality and learning strengths. If you are a parent, using Robinson’s research and insight makes choosing your child’s school a more satisfying and rewarding adventure.
Ken Robinson book: Highly Recommended!
Sir Ken Robinson left this planet in 2020; a monumental loss to education. However, he left behind a wealth of work, both books and videos, that provide practical and inspiring advice for teachers and parents. Creative Schools: The grassroots revolution that’s transforming education, by Lou Aronica and Ken Robinson, PhD, will make you want to go back into your classroom and make a ruckus — for the kids!
APA Citation:
Graham, Y. (2024, July 6). Creative Schools, by Ken Robinson — A Book Review. [Blog Post]. Accessed at www.dyslexiakit.net on (date accessed).