Response to Sir Ken Robinson's talk: Do Schools kill creativity?

In reviewing some of my classmates' responses to Sir Ken Robinson's talk on creativity in education, the general consensus seems to be that Sir Ken Robinson's opinion that education 'squanders' creativity through the emphasis on math, language, science, and other academic subjects as opposed to arts, dance, and music is correct. I do understand that education does not focus on teaching creativity, however, I do not agree with the idea that it crushes creativity all together. Just because it is not a main focus does not mean that it is not addressed at all. The notion that education crushes creativity is created under that assumption that academic subjects are solely academic. I believe, however, that students can express themselves just as creatively through writing papers in their English courses as they can painting a picture in art or performing a dance. Writing is one of the best ways to bring out your creativity and express yourself as a unique individual. That is what we are doing here in our blogs, expressing our own thoughts as unique individuals. Words play a strong role in being a creative individual. Although I do think it is sad that many music, band, art, and dance classes are disappearing out of elementary, middle, and high schools, and that these kinds of classes are important for students' creativity development, I think that this just means there is a greater opportunity for teachers of academic based classes to encourage more creativity in their lessons. As a math teacher, creativity isn't as easy to focus on, but it is a challenge that must be overcome. Incorporating group learning and fun activities that encourage inquiry based learning and creative assignments can are some ways in which we can encourage creativity in our students.

Students blogs referenced:
http://acttwointermission.blogspot.com
http://jzhang7.blogspot.com/
http://noodle55.wordpress.com/
http://melanieroon.blogspot.com/