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Alison Gray

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In order to enable the creative mind of a student an educator must have the ability to admit their own inadequacies.

Having taught at both the concurrent and post secondary level, it has been my experience that creativity is sequestered most often when the educator either feels threatened or inadequate in the presence of talented individuals.

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    Jun 13 2012: I can agree with your statement but I believe it falls short of being complete. They must admit but they also should be excited to learn the answer and convey that excitment to the student. Thus completing the circle.
  • May 26 2012: I often talk directly to my students of my own shortfalls and inadequacies. However, some children need to trust you and respect you first. Best to play to your strengths until they know you better. Many of my students are far more talented and intelligent than me. I am not threatened by this because I am more experienced than them and I have had the benefit of many more years of learning. I am still learning everyday.
  • May 22 2012: Yes absolutely, they must admit. Even if they admit, will they able to nuture student creative mind as they don't have one.
  • May 19 2012: Thats the right spark you got by your observation. Educators should have learning attitude but no, its not found in most of the teachers. Either students stop their imagination or they try to find it in their own way. Am fully agree with u that educators must accept this one
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    May 19 2012: I am not sure I totally agree with the statement. However, I do agree that it is the job of the instructor to facilitiate the student and provide a growth path. The hardest and most important thing a parent or a teacher can do is let the kids grow and expand. Allow them to try and fail, to continue until they suceed. In short they must at some point leave the "nest" and spread their wings. We should be ready and know when that moment comes.

    I do not consider that "inadequate". I taught him to ride a bike ..... I will send him to a qualified pilot to learn to fly a plane. It is important to know the difference. I do not feel either threatened or inadequate ... I feel proud to know that I have taught him that education is not a goal but rather a journey that he is about to take. All the best. Bob.
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    May 16 2012: Hi Alison,
    I like your question, because my theory-bin on the subject is confident.
    If the teachers personality health is low, they would have difficulty. If their personality is at it’s peak they should have no difficulty.
    I realize that my comment will raise questions. I am prepared to to expand.
    Don
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    May 16 2012: This is true. In most cases, a lot of students look at the material they're being taught as impossible to learn. These students tend to make the reason they cant learn the material personal and look at the people who are successful at it perfect. If an educator admitted their own inadequacies, learning for the students will be filled with possibilities and less doubt.