The Psychology of Creativity: Theories and Tools for Gifted and Talented Teens
What's included
1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hoursHomework
Homework for this class is optional. At the end of both sessions, students will be given next steps and resources to explore further if they are interested.Assessment
Informal assessment will be used in order to gauge student understanding. The information gained from informal assessment will determine the depth with which we navigate each topic.Class Experience
US Grade 8 - 11
As a certified gifted and talented teacher, introducing young adults to creative psychology is a great passion of mine. In this class, students will be given an overview of insightful theories driving modern understandings about giftedness, innovation, and wellbeing. This class was put together in an effort to help high-ability students understand themselves better, make use of their strengths, decipher their multipotentiality, and refine their unique visions. A lot of exciting content is covered. I hope to provide plenty of time for meaningful interaction. The information is presented in a slide-show format. The structure of this class is lecture. Then, time is provided for questions and discussions. (I’m always excited to hear thoughtful and insightful teens process these theories with others when they encounter them for the first time.) Topics Covered Include: Divergent vs. Convergent Thinking - Gain awareness of when to use each thinking style Multipotentiality - How to handle multiple interests in a job market seeking specialization/niches Bloom’s Taxonomy - How to push critical thinking and unique projects to the highest level Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs - Self-actualization while navigating wants and needs Some classes are more talkative than others. If we have time, these subjects are also addressed: Theory of Positive Disintegration - Cut through societal noise and create an unconventional life of service High Sensitivity - What it is and who has it If students are interested in continuing these discussions in a more tailored way (or diving deeper into a specific theory), please see my class Creativity Coaching 1:1 Sessions: https://outschool.com/classes/11-creativity-and-accountability-coaching-7Pj65OpG#usm3isaHNf
Learning Goals
- Students will improve their understanding of creativity, including how it works in individual human beings and in the broader culture
- Students will understand creativity as a psychological discipline with a rich history full of theories and scientific insights
- Students will improve their self-knowledge and learn to observe their creative thinking with greater awareness
Other Details
Supply List
I encourage students to attend with some way to take notes (tablet, notebook, or whatever's their style).
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Iowa Teaching Certificate in Special Education
Master's Degree in Education from Morningside University
RELEVANT CERTIFICATIONS
Department of Education, PK-12 Talented and Gifted
RELEVANT EDUCATION
Masters of Arts in Teaching
Morningside College, Sioux City, IA
Doctoral Student
Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity, Studio City, CA
I love studying the creative process. Sharing what I learn in order to improve your creative practice is my life's work! I have formally and informally studied creativity, both in my master's degree and as a doctoral student. My master's thesis was about bibliotherapy and its impact on gifted students. I was also a full-time songwriter for many years and a guitar teacher for 10 years. I pull from many sources (both personal and professional) in order to put together impactful classes. - Michelle Ptacek
Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$12
per classMeets once
55 min
Completed by 23 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
4-6 learners per class