There isn’t an education system on the planet that teaches dance everyday to children the way we teach them mathematics. Why?
Human intelligence is richer and more dynamic than we have been led to believe by formal academic education.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Formal education often limits our view of human intelligence, which is more complex and versatile than taught in schools.
In this quote, Ken Robinson emphasizes that the traditional educational system tends to restrict our understanding of intelligence. He argues that human intelligence is not just about acquiring facts and passing exams; it encompasses creativity, adaptability, and a range of skills that are often overlooked in academic settings. Robinson advocates for a broader perspective on intelligence that appreciates its richness and dynamism, encouraging a more inclusive approach to learning and knowledge.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a TED Talk on innovative education methods.
More from Ken Robinson
All quotes →Creativity now is as important in education as literacy, and we should treat it with the same status.
When my son, James, was doing homework for school, he would have five or six windows open on his computer, Instant Messenger was flashing continuously, his cell phone was constantly ringing, and he was downloading music and watching the TV over his shoulder. I don’t know if he was doing any homework, but he was running an empire as far as I could see, so I didn’t really care.
Creativity is the greatest gift of human intelligence.
Teaching for creativity aims to encourage self-confidence, independence of mind, and the capacity to think for oneself.
Helping people to connect with their personal creative capacities is the surest way to release the best they have to offer.
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