Creativity in the Schools

This chapter focuses on modern and classic creativity definitions and models. Various creativity theories are reviewed using the Four C Model of Creativity as a framework, which uses a developmental lens to view creativity (from mini-c to little-c to Pro-c to Big-C). Then, we will discuss how student supports for mini-c can be used to foster student creativity in the classroom. Specific educational environments that are conducive to nurturing this creative development and environments that hinder it will be detailed. In addition, the importance of teaching students when (and when not) to be creative is discussed. We offer some future directions relating to nurturing classroom creativity and provide suggestions for further reading.