Session 15

Creating Co-operative Environments - Creatively and Co-operatively

Session Description:

Researchers often consider how to develop creative environments through “person” (the characteristics of the people involved), “process” (the operations they perform), and “product” (the resultant outcomes). However, in education, in business, and indeed in all areas of human endeavour, the problem-solving environment is equally important. And both in face-to-face and distance relationships, there are things than can be done to help establish an energizing, stimulating climate. The focus of this session is on nurturing creativity in schools, post-secondary institutions, and the workplace by setting a positive tone which builds trust and openness, challenge and motivation, autonomy, dynamism, playfulness and humour, and idea support.

Presenter: Dr. Ken McCluskey, University of Winnipeg

Dr. Ken McCluskey, Dean and Professor of Education at the University of Winnipeg, has had 25 years experience as a school psychologist, special educator, and administrator in the public school system. A recipient of the Canadian Council of Exceptional Children’s “Joan Kershaw Publications Award” and his institution’s Teaching, Research, and Community Service Awards, he has written over 100 professional articles and chapters. Ken is also the author, co-author, or editor of a dozen books, including The Doubtful Gift: Strategies for Educating Gifted Children in the Regular Classroom, Lost Prizes: Talent Development and Problem Solving with At-Risk Populations, and Understanding ADHD: Our Personal Journey.