Journal 6: Fostering Creativity and Innovation through Technology

Vaidyanathan, S. (2012). Fostering creativity and innovation through technology. ISTE: Learning and Leading, 39(6), 24-27. Retrieved from http://www.learningandleading-digital.com/learning_leading/20120304?pg=26&pm=2&fs=1


Summary: This article offers the idea of using digital design programs in order to enhance students learning in the STEM subjects (science, engineering, technology and mathematics) as well as their creativity and innovation. Some teachers like Ms. Vaidyanathan in the Los Altos, Ca school district have used this technique in class and have found it to be successful. Programs such as Scratch, SketchUp and Seashore have been used in order to help children in their creative learning and innovation as well as the core STEM subjects. Students like the idea that they can do school work while having the option to easily edit or fix any mistakes (2012.25). A plus about using digital design is that many of the programs are free, therefore, there isn't an effect on the schools budget. This is also effective because students can then download programs at home and they can finish up any homework or just learn new things on the programs for fun. It is known that technology is an important aspect in today's society. With that said, digital design programs are an essential tool in expanding students learning.


Question 1: Why do students like using digital design programs in school?


Answer 1: As stated in the article, students like the idea of unlimited "paper". In most art classes, students usually have to add certain colors or start a project over in order to make it "just right". But with digital design programs, students have access to edit projects or make editions to projects whenever they please. They can also take away any added on editions if they decide they don't like the changes. Many students enjoy new activities that differ from the usual math and language arts type of work. However, digital design programs focus on those main subjects while making it interesting for students to learn in a creative way. 


Question 2: How does digital design reinforce STEM?


Answer 2: Digital design is a mix of art and technology (2012.27). It is built on a foundation of mathematics, engineering and science. For example, angles and polygons can be used in programs like vector graphics and different aspects can be changed along the way. Using different geographic elements on these programs is a fun and effective way for students to learn math. When students enjoy learning, they are more likely to want to continue learning on these programs. Therefore, they spend more time on the programs at home. As a result, the children are more likely to remember and recall the learned material.