It was really interesting to hear about and observe parts of the six year journey so far. Their collective knowledge, expertise and experience is being brought together to help others recognise the value of and influence the practice of learning and teaching in their own contexts.
Mark talked about his background as a Scientist who went back to study Fine Art in the Art School in Hobart. The different methodologies of learning and teaching were a huge struggle to begin with - put simply - science education is more explicitly content driven whilst fine art aims to draw from the individual and sparks the imagination to develop unique ideas and "voice".
Graham and Mark aim to publish the research, ideas and activities that have got them to this point in the development of BPS, to help others find solutions to developing creativity in their own contexts. Making the complex concepts understandable, intellectually robust but practical, achievable and habitual in practice, is seriously challenging. But clearly the only thing against them both is time, for everything else is there. Mark has already pulled together rationales/ideas under each of the concepts and shared with staff in a PD session (Professional Development session). Now to identify activities and 'pointers' (that don't become a template for activity) is Graham's on-going task. They are 'on the right page' and move forward positively. I am envious of their process so far. I wholeheartedly believe in creativity as a key skill for all. I believe an individualised education is the route to nurturing 'successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens and effective contributors' as Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) aims to do. I also think creative approaches to learning and teaching can model creativity and implicitly acknowledge its value ... But I also believe we have done this for a long, long time in high quality art and design education ... it has just not been recognised (or is, realistically, universal) ... yet.
Warren Jordan also offered to introduce me to the architects who are interpreting the brief for Big Picture School and have a site visit. The space is fantastic and eco friendly materials are used throughout. Bean bags, couches, not separate staff rooms and parental welcome areas are all built in. Staff, students and architects have fed into the process. What a wonderful vision, space, situation and resource.
