Tow #1- Media: "How Schools Kill Creativity" by Sir Ken Robinson

 

 

 

Picasso once said, "All children are born artists. The problem is to remain an artist as you grow up." In this speech, Sir Ken Robinson makes a profound argument that institutions are actually squandering the creative potential of their pupils. Robinson introduces this problem by showing the creativity of young children and how they are unafraid of making mistakes. He argues that with the current school systems in the world, mistakes are stigmatized and that students are educated "out" of creativity. Throughout the speech, Sir Ken Robinson states that the fundamental idea of education needs to be rethought. This speech informs others about the diversity of creativity, which is very valid today because 21st century problems require a lot of different approaches and perspectives. Robinson achieves his purpose by primarily employing humor. His jocular tone makes the audience want to listen. Robinson even digresses on the occasional tangent, which gives the audience time to laugh, before he continues with the topic. Robinson also uses anecdotes to illustrate his point. For example, he uses the example of Gillian Lynne, who managed to find her passion and succeeded even though her talents did not lie in academics. Overall, I believe that Sir Ken Robinson accomplished his purpose. Although I've always thought of intelligence as diverse until now I have never questioned how school system works. After hearing this talk and the very valid points and interesting anecdotes that Ken Robinson has shared, I have a better understanding of why this system is not for everyone and how it can sometimes even unknowingly repress talent. An educator for many years, Sir Ken Robinson certainly has great credibility. He completed his PhD at the University of London and was a professor of education for twelve years at the University of Warwick and received many honors, including the Peabody Medal. In 2003, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his dedication to the arts. His most recent book, Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything, is a New York Times Bestseller and has been translated to over 20 languages.