Creative Schools: The Grassroots Revolution That’s Transforming Education, by Ken Robinson, PhD

Reviewed by Yvonna Graham, M.Ed.

CAN’T I JUST WATCH THE KEN ROBINSON TED TALK?

By all means, watch the 20 minute TED talk: Ken Robinson: Do schools kill creativity? It’s informative and highly entertaining. But if you are a teacher or tutor who wants to understand how public school could change for the better, 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 as more important than test results.

IDEAS WORTH CAUSING TROUBLE OVER AT SCHOOL

“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 and provide enriched learning opportunities for students and more satisfaction for teachers. The book is having a positive effect; check out Teachers Throwing Out Grades (#TTOG) on Twitter and Facebook.

WHAT CAN ONE PARENT OR TEACHER POSSIBLY DO?

“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. 

FIVE STARS; HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

This is a book I will read many times; I hope you do, too.