#ONedchat Archive
The idea for @onedchat stemmed from a conversation between Allison Fuisz and Amy Bowker in the Spring of 2014. They noticed a gap on Twitter where an Ontario-based education chat was concerned. After several conversations and a vision in mind, @onedchat was created.
Wednesday May 25, 2016 8:30 PM EDT
Welcome to - so happy you could join. is behind the handle tonight. Our guest tonight is Dr. Debbie Donsky.
Our topic is Creativity, Leadership and Innovation. Dr. Donsky is the Principal of Curriculum
and Instructional Services. YRDSB
We use a Q/1/A1 format. Please don't forget to add at the end of your tweets so we can all be part of the same conversation. Q1...
Our commitment is to archive chat’s within 24 hours, so that you can follow along now and/or catch up later
David Benay grade 5 Ottawa
Let’s start chatting. Introduce yourself, what and where you teach. Please add your favourite creative outlet to your introduction
Shelly from Toronto; Instructional Coach
Welcome to Shelley! Nice to have you back.
Good evening. Debby from NY.
"Education is taking into the future we cannot grasp." Sir Ken Robinson
creativity will play major role!
https://t.co/jB88LkkEdL
Hi Spiri from PA, G& T, excited to join tonight, my creative outlet is cooking
I am Deb Donsky and so happy to be the guest! Creative outlets for me are my art and writing!
So happy that you have made time to be here, Debby!
I’m Noa from outside Toronto teaching Gr 6-8 H/Geo. My creative outlets are teaching, writing and singing in the shower.
Allison from Ottawa here - this mind is whirling - does that mean I am creative?
My creative outlet is singing!!!
Hello all! Karen-- from BC. Creativity, innovation and inspiring creative learning & leading exciting and critical work.
- So exciting to have you be here tonight!
We all know that you have a creative mind and innovative approach to teaching
Hi everyone, Joël McLean from Callander, ON. I am a pedagogical leader and principal.
A1: Innovation has an equation, elements put together that solve a problem. Creativity is expression without a goal
We are so happy that you could join us!
Rola from Ottawa Gr 6 Fr Imm I will stay focused with
- Exactly - should have made a 'smiley' face at the end as rhetorical. Sigh.
Thank you for coming out tonight. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts
Totally understand the allure. Keep us posted on the score and we will give you more to cheer for
A1: creativity drives innovation.
A1: It takes creativity to innovate !
A1: Creativity and innovation both infer something new, but are distinct in execution & subjectivity. Creativity=hard to measure
A1: Both require mindframe of wonder, willingness to seek new possibilities, being open, risk taking.
A1) I see creativity as imagination, curiosity, discovery & knowledge, it's a part of innovation
A1: also about combining existing ideas in new ways; not always something 'new'.
A1) Creativity is the pursuit of passion. Innovation is creating and designing fueled by passion. https://t.co/vbNvEmsGGF
A1- Creativity and Innovation are connected both require thinking, imagination and problem solving,
Hello PLN just lurking in while having our PLC
Hi I'm Robin - instructional coach. My creative outlet? Collaborative planning !
Join us on miss you! Where have you been??
So do you see creativity as smaller than innovation? Does it fit inside innovation?
Welcome to . Collaborative planning is a fantastic creative outlet!
Hi, Dylan Smith here, checking in from Ottawa.
A1: Innovation is what and how you think/want to do and creativity is your output/what you show.
- I am such a bad Canuck - have been an fan for so long. So torn!
A1: Yes. And potentially, they both come from the desire to express something not yet expressed, or seen. https://t.co/Q88E77BiQK
A1- Creativity and Innovation are connected both require thinking, imagination and problem solving,
Lurking is great, but pipe in when you can. We will have the chat Storified by tomorrow, to peruse at your leisure
- woot woot! Lurk away - we love our global friends :) Hope all is well over there!
Welcome, Dylan. Happy to have you joining
A1 creativity sparks innovation
Or maybe just new to the person or people doing it!
A2: In every subject actually !
A2: depends on your definition of creativity; you can solve a math problem creatively.
Welcome, Michelle! Excited to have you join us this evening for
S2: Both require thinking outside the box, developing new ideas and methods. Creativity and innovation go hand n hand.
A2: Ts should see ALL learning as creative opportunities through integrative/creative thinking & cross curricular awesomeness.
A2: It can spark innovation, excitement, passion, drive.
Totally agree but not always evident! Sometimes I think success criteria dependence limits creativity!
A2: creativity is in every subject; might look different but about finding unique solutions & ideas
I don't see it smaller, per se, there's no innovation w/o creativity, both is value creation
A2- When we are creating and innovating Ss are problem solving through multidisciplinary thinking.
A2 creativity develops risk taking skills of our Ss which in turn contributes to the dynamics of our curriculum
A1: Both require thinking outside the box, demonstrating new ideas and methods. Creativity and innovation go hand n hand.
A2: integrated curriculum allows for fantastic creativity & innovation; pose an open ended driving Q to Ss.
Hi friends at ! Popping in to say hi to my friends!! Love the questions tonight!
A1: Innovation is sometimes the product of creativity
Anna from Oakville. I teach adult ESL at Sheridan. Not a k-12 educator, but want to listen in on this topic tonight
A2: Creativity means many things and should be fostered everywhere- unique
- all about the lens/perspective to the info in front of us.. different entry points = creative starting points
creativity and innovation go hand in hand. We you are innovative you are in the process of creating
A2) Creativity can be infused everywhere in the curriculum in the opportunities that we offer to Ss. https://t.co/PMBgbDz8eV
A2: processes in both Science & Arts require creative process to emerge from a challenge or inspiration. https://t.co/K65JYrKm7g
A2. Creativity is a function of everything we do, it's a process that requires knowledge & inspiration, it's a way of daily edu
Creativity is personal -- have 2 B observant of how r students reveal their creativity 2 interplay https://t.co/cmSRfmtMEp
I've been silent in chats recently Jen. How are you?
New to the chat. Nicole here from Listowel ON
Yes they can. We have to be selective and open-minded.
I used to love teaching combined grades for that exact reason! More reason to be creative! https://t.co/EEvkBoqKrm
A2: integrated curriculum allows for fantastic creativity & innovation; pose an open ended driving Q to Ss.
Hi Anna! So glad that you have joined us for this wonderful
Hi! Michelle joining from Ottawa! Educator and P of amazing innovative 21C school
- Adore this. I see a Venn Diagram in my head for this entire - great visual!
- Adore this. I see a Venn Diagram in my head for this entire - great visual!
A2: Ss can be creative w/ how they demonstrate learning.Ts are creative presenting content. https://t.co/VtgcFU4u2G
Welcome, Nicole. It's always nice to see a new faces join
Risk taking needs to happen with students AND teachers in order for creativity to be fostered. https://t.co/lDxLBPKZjM
A2 creativity develops risk taking skills of our Ss which in turn contributes to the dynamics of our curriculum
Creativity has roles in all areas of learning.When Ss are free to create & share ideas great things happen https://t.co/MBK7OEwmzE
Risk taking and learning together.
A1: Creativity = synthesizing experience to solve a problem. Might be very small, or deeply personal, but there’s always a problem
A2: creativity when thinking about flow of the day/ structures of classroom and allowing for flexibility & spontaneity
A3: I am not convinced fostering creativity and assessing and evaluating are mutually exclusive.
that's when usually Ss strive to be at their best
A2: creativity plays a role in all areas of learning because learning demands creativity
A3: Creativity can be better assessed by viewing the process (journal) & S’s take on the product (artist statement/ reflection)
It is shared! We need to take risks alongside our students!
A2: Creativity is part of instructional design. In Math, creativity can be a big part of problem solving - good problem required!
Our school is based on the idea that we can't teach tomorrow's leaders in yesterdays classrooms.
It also requires awareness to let creativity flourish schedules squelch it https://t.co/cnL5j8WRgE
A2. Creativity is a function of everything we do, it's a process that requires knowledge & inspiration, it's a way of daily edu
That is so true . Not all creativity is on display all the time.It can be hidden within the work https://t.co/URXakc2k6I
Creativity is personal -- have 2 B observant of how r students reveal their creativity 2 interplay https://t.co/cmSRfmtMEp
Sharing ideas! So important for Ss to build on each others creativity and innovation
What we call learning often isn't. Creativity is for sure an essential element of learning!
Innovation happens after "failure" and before growth.
A3: get creative with my assessments - 3 facts and a fib or "leftovers again" as formative assessments
A3. Can't reduce everything to a number/letter grade, Give Ss feedback & time to reflect on new ideas
A2: providing opportunities for Ss to think critically and think creatively - these go hand in hand
Same here - also get creative with pedagogy. https://t.co/QpJfzarelk
A3: get creative with my assessments - 3 facts and a fib or "leftovers again" as formative assessments
A3 Assessing in ways new to students: collaborative essay writing in Google Docs, for example, is new to my learners
A3: hard to assess/evaluate creativity; berry subjective just like grades themselves.
We need to prepare students to be wrong so they can come up with something original
A3: giving students multiple choices to complete tasks that follow and connect to assessment is key https://t.co/zQ9uioWDuB
A3: Providing S choice whenever possible, & utilizing formative assessment. Form. Assess can be creative. https://t.co/C5SZPicAaa
A3: Maybe give students options of how they get evaluated ? Oral, written, computer,...
A2: Need to also be creative when designing A&E. Some things are/should not be the same as when we attended school.
A3: provide inquiry opportunities, TALK w/ your Ss, use multi-media options .. falls into place. https://t.co/yLvatVjlDT
the sum of the parts is greater than the whole. https://t.co/JDcYXzgjRV
A3: Creativity can be better assessed by viewing the process (journal) & S’s take on the product (artist statement/ reflection)
A3- Having Ss reflect / feedback about the process on multidisciplinary conceptual learning and skills 6C's
A2: Ss w/ passion in any subject need to be creative to synthesize their experience in a gratifying way. https://t.co/4sw6kxcUXF
A2: Making movement requires students and educators to think creatively and desire to innovate. https://t.co/efdhdroxnX
Most of my Ss 💖 it. They ran to the 💸 store to buy a stylus! Many sketch during spare time and at home too!
A3 I agree the process is a struggle, but I still believe we can and should assess creativity. We assess things we put value on.
- even more so, honour the struggle with letting them ask why & explore for the sake of exploration
A3: assessing through problem-solving, focus on big ideas, making connections, allow Ss to think about content in different way
Encourage Ss to experiment, not give them answers but giving them the tools they need to find out what the answers might be
A4: As a principal, I need to be a model of what it looks like. Support teachers and students.
a4 by taking risks and playing :-P
A4: Teacher/Educator sees self as facilitator, creating culture of curiosity, wonder, to see things anew https://t.co/21lS9ze2Yd
A4: trust and compassion fm needs to underpin actions and words
feedback & reflect so important builds deeper learning, expression and fulfillment
Feedback lends itself to creativity when it's seen as part of the evolution of the product, not as a reflection of ability.
Powerful learning occurs at the intersection of and . Creativity and innovation thrive!
absolutely! How do we encourage those who do not necessarily value creativity to see importance?
is now trending in Canada, ranking 30
A4: We need to create a safe learning environment for risk-taking to flourish, one where acceptance & tolerance is the norm
A4: Let the 'grading go' & communicate value of play/inquiry/creativity/culture of asking why - see where it goes.
YES! But how do we do it without limiting it? Is it process? Formative assessment? Reflection?
A3: If we can agree licensing Ss to be creative will promote learning, then perhaps there isn't a conflict https://t.co/2cty10tj0y
Q4 Modelling our own efforts & persistence when things don't come easily & neural vocabulary of mindsets is important
A4 To develop a community of risk taking and play, the adults must play and take risks.
A3: giving students some creative control over how they demonstrate and pursue their learning.
A2. Creativity is not limited to the arts - or any subject. We can think in new ways and create in any subject area.
A4: Risk taking & play drive creativity. Providing Ss with feedback encourages inquiry and wonder when done through questioning.
Co-constructing criteria together might be a good start
A4: 1st is creating a safe space. Let's Ss voices be heard; let them design their learning space; build trust w/ community circles
hi Karen. Great to see you here too :-)
A4a. Class setting Ts create for learning affects how learning is done
I wonder about the use of the word failure. It shouldn't mean final...but I think it has in the past.
A4b) class setting based on creativity & colloboration assists Ss in taking risks and exploring
Asking what is of higher value than creativity is an interesting go to... https://t.co/HH2AV1MfLK
absolutely! How do we encourage those who do not necessarily value creativity to see importance?
A4: let Ss explore w/o the cloud of a grade; they will play & experiment
A4.1: Use pedagogical practices like those of to fuel meaningful convos that spark creativity.
even thinking about how we can bridge this to parents to develop shared understanding
Yes! Make thinking and decision making visible when ever possible
A4: I told my Ss stories of real ppl who have overcome obstacles & persevered b/c they took risks; scientists, celebrities etc
A4: Feedback at every stage from different audiences helps, but making class into a community first and most important
I think so too! They want to know what is RIGHT with a grade rather than what is POSSIBLE!
A4: model by example; share your story as an educator; how much have you grown?
Is the struggle about valuing creativity or trying to place a value on creativity?
yes if no grade they will focus on their learning & ideas & how to develop them.
A4: Creating a positive classroom culture that encourages risk taking, perseverance and empowering Ss is key.
Might hosting an evening of "Celebration of Creativity" bring the gap/conversations closer? https://t.co/xAJd61vUMH
even thinking about how we can bridge this to parents to develop shared understanding
A4:We need to have an innovators mindset where we believe that Ss develop & they create new ideas https://t.co/UrMdQwQ1BE
I think is the convergence of both ideas.
Failure is a part of learning and growth. Accept failure, provide support and try again!
A4: students need time to be curious, fail safely, and reflect on the processes
It's s powerful but delicate told yo set the stage for that, but worth the efforts
A4: we have to take risks together. When one trips, we all help them get back up.
A3.Ss can demonstrate learning in creative ways. A+ E and creativity don't have to work against each other https://t.co/5VW8yTppph
Agree! When Ss feel comfortable in room, feel ready to take risks
- thoughts on the intro of projects to help Ts get to the idea of making this class culture?
we are seeing this resilience to failure and reflecting in our coding activities https://t.co/RjQDZmGQZS
Failure is a part of learning and growth. Accept failure, provide support and try again!
A4- Ss respectful others' thinking , developing interpersonal collaborative skills & Integrative Thinking models
A4: Such a culture is bound to score high on acceptance, appreciation of diversity, collaboration. https://t.co/Az2Al3NpKN
We need to create a classrm culture where taking risks/making mistakes is not only ok - it's encouraged https://t.co/2mnHOpaAB3
A4: students need time to be curious, fail safely, and reflect on the processes
This is true with adults as well. 😊
A4: Asking students to use their imaginations regularly - modelling an inquiry stance - a state of wonder - joy.
Collaboration can encourage shy Ss to take those risks
Q4: I force students to be ready to show/workshop early so that they have time to revise
A4. We are more likley to encourage risk taking when we take scores away. As soon as we grade it they stop learning about it.
A5: Creativity can play many roles- help teacher see more possibilities, building a culture, celebrating creative teaching strate.
genius hour gets Ss to asks questions and learn about their passions. Ss become the expert https://t.co/Ymv2Dt5pXK
- thoughts on the intro of projects to help Ts get to the idea of making this class culture?
Yes! We need to create space in our schools for our staff to play, experiment, create!
A5: Find out the passions of your colleagues - Play on that during staff meetings & encourage PD of all sorts!
Yes Model an inquiry stance. For something to happen at any level it has to happen at every level. https://t.co/053ChhPcuH
A4: Asking students to use their imaginations regularly - modelling an inquiry stance - a state of wonder - joy.
I record presentations so kids can see what they look like then revise for the real thing!
Yes ! It can give them a voice.
A5: Professional learning can be creative through engagement. Creativity soars when one can explore. https://t.co/dDFT9l97jL
- was more thinking of Ts not Ss :) Ss flourish when given guidance on projects :)
Truth! Ss clam up, so focused on the score not what they learned, or value of learning
A5: Ts need as much time as Ss to play and create I order for their knowledge to grow
A5 creativity fisters Ts passion to innovate more and to try new things
A4 Creativity works best when Ts remove their "expert hats" and let Ss express their knowledge in ways accessible to them.
A5- Celebrating creativity by sharing with the community and inviting school community to be part of the process.
Ts need time to take risks...we need admin to honour creative risk-taking in staff but it takes a culture of trust
5. Collaboration, exchange of ideas, build on other's ideas, heart of the creative process, not focus on individual isolation
Utilizing tech is another creative resource for Ss to be comfortable in risk taking.
A5: Professional learning that invites, invokes educators to wonder about something they see, notice. https://t.co/vXi7UQ4OoZ
A4: Asking students to use their imaginations regularly - modelling an inquiry stance - a state of wonder - joy.
A4 Creativity works best when Ts remove their "expert hats" and let Ss express their knowledge in ways accessible to them.
A5 In-house speed dating PD - who says format must be traditional. Get it fast & easy ;)
YES!! Why rinse & repeat lessons?! Try something new, have fun!
Q6: What do we need from school leaders in order to foster a culture of innovation & creativity in school? https://t.co/kbWZCThFmw
- so agree. I tell my Ss I am only an expert in being 'silly' ... I am a small resource & never a source.
A5: creativity & collaboration were the focus of a brainstorm session I recently had with a school team.
So funny! Sometimes I put my hand over my mouth to stop myself from interrupting!
A5: Take time to explore each other's interpretations of 'creativity' in the PL context...interesting surprises may emerge.
A6: Cultivating a creative culture in all forms, leaders guiding the way by example, creative products and innovations celebrated
A5 If creativity is good for S learning it is good for T learning More than choice at PD sessions - just let Ts explore and learn!
A5: creative spaces exist in our minds and attitudes - professional learning is what we make it.
A6: we need time to try new things and explore new ways to deliver the same content https://t.co/92ZN7MU1mP
Q6: What do we need from school leaders in order to foster a culture of innovation & creativity in school? https://t.co/kbWZCThFmw
A5: We are all participating in creative professional learning through . It's creative, meaningful and engaging.
A6: "Guided creativity" where, as a new teacher, I appreciate being told where to re-focus my creative juices.
A5: It's not just kids, everyone learns through creativity. We need tt harness every tool we can
YES! And get out of the way as leaders! https://t.co/5CD6wNH0lG
A5 If creativity is good for S learning it is good for T learning More than choice at PD sessions - just let Ts explore and learn!
absolutely my friend, Ts need time to reflect to let the creative juices flow freely
A3: Do we truly foster or teach/evaluate creativity in our classrooms? How do we foster creativity?
- yup yup! Often use the idea of an orchestra; conductor needs musicians & vica versa
That's an excellent idea, Chris. https://t.co/rX4ykkIFkx
A5: Take time to explore each other's interpretations of 'creativity' in the PL context...interesting surprises may emerge.
A6: Ts need to feel respected and free to be innovative in their classroom activities.
evaluate or assess? Students can self-assess their creativity!
- Just going to go with ce que tu as mis :) What M. McLean a dit pour A6.
hey friend! Good to see you
A6: We need learning leaders who immerse themselves in a school culture of creativity and innovation, learning alongside Ts & Ss.
true! I like this.... Creativity is a competency that students first need to understand...
A6: A leader that has empathy, that know how and when to push, supports, innovates..all along side teachers.
A6: Honor S choice & voice. Encourage Ss to lead their own learning as we facilitate the learning process. https://t.co/zlEp111Jgl
Q6: What do we need from school leaders in order to foster a culture of innovation & creativity in school? https://t.co/kbWZCThFmw
A6- By focusing on Ss learning and support for teachers.
A6 An environment that encourages and supports calculated risk-taking would be a good start.
I like to think about it as personal professional voice and choice rather than personalized for me.
A6: Creating systemic collaborative "space" , less fear.
Can I get an Amen? https://t.co/L7eM7l5KLL
A6: We need learning leaders who immerse themselves in a school culture of creativity and innovation, learning alongside Ts & Ss.
A6 we need support, a growth mindset perspective and a culture of collaboration
I think we might be a little to 'driven' by a culture that leans on the side of evaluation more than ongoing assessment.
- this is why I adore being part of Ontario's crew. Seeing Ss lead/talk about change is awesome.
A huge thank you goes out to for guiding tonight’s amazing chat
I agree with student self-assessment!
A6 Would be helpful if leadership recognized that growth via creativity is messy and noisy and non-linear.
Q6. If we want the Ss in the building to be innovative, then the Ts in that building must be allowed to be innovative too.
You don't always have to commit :)
Way to go for being an official moderator rockstar!
Continue to use to bring Ontario together to help make education better for all
I think there is an important distinction between using creativity 2 do conventional things & using creativity 2 do better things
- certainly grateful for your role in tonight's - look forward to learning from/with you.
Be sure sure to connect with someone from tonight’s chat for future collaboration ideas
And so much the principals and vice principals!
Join us in two weeks, 8:30-9:30, when lead our End of Year Wrap Up
And therapist! She is amazing!
Thanks everyone for a great chat !
Creativity comes in many forms. Give a chance to all to explore of what it means to creativity means to them
So many great ideas and thoughtful educators. Good thing grow in Ontario along with great teachers https://t.co/uWj4kZcMgh
Be sure sure to connect with someone from tonight’s chat for future collaboration ideas
Thanks for joining us everyone. Follow to find the link to her blog and other adventures
Thanks for moderating tonight's chat ! https://t.co/iPQEsIxcvn
Thanks for joining us everyone. Follow to find the link to her blog and other adventures
A5: noticing something that evokes wonderment about students learning and then creating ways for me to connect to learning
Thanks for tapping into our creative/ innovative minds tonight.