The call for papers for a special issue highlighting creativity in higher education practices inspired me to write an article drawing out the many interesting facets of creativity within co-creation of the curriculum. I enjoyed leading a discussion session today focused on the paper at the St Mary's University Festival of Learning and Teaching with this year's theme focusing specifically on co-creation of the curriculum. Thank you to the participants and chair for a fascinating discussion!
The article abstract, link to the full open access paper, and discussion questions from the session are shared below.
Abstract
This research article uses an inductive approach to analyse the nuanced nature of creativity within co-creation of the curriculum in higher education. Co-creation of the curriculum is one form of engagement in learning and teaching in which students and staff work in partnership so that each has a voice and a stake in curriculum development. Using qualitative research methods, this research focuses on the creative practices of co-creation of the curriculum and draws new connections between student engagement, creativity, and authenticity in learning and teaching. Themes that are explored include: (A) innovation through dialogue and collaboration within the community, (B) play and creatively trying new things despite risks, (C) enjoyment of creative learning and teaching, (D) shared ownership leading to intrinsic motivation and creativity, and (E) creatively challenging the status quo. The author suggests that it is the inclusive processes and products of creativity within co-creation of the curriculum that helps students and staff to develop essential skills and attributes – such as confidence, empathy, and resilience – that help them engage in authentic learning and teaching experiences and learn to cope with supercomplexity in today’s ever-changing world.
Read the full article: Creativity and Collaboration: An Exploration of Empathy, Inclusion, and Resilience in Co-Creation of the Curriculum in the Student Engagement in Higher Education Journal.
The article abstract, link to the full open access paper, and discussion questions from the session are shared below.
Abstract
This research article uses an inductive approach to analyse the nuanced nature of creativity within co-creation of the curriculum in higher education. Co-creation of the curriculum is one form of engagement in learning and teaching in which students and staff work in partnership so that each has a voice and a stake in curriculum development. Using qualitative research methods, this research focuses on the creative practices of co-creation of the curriculum and draws new connections between student engagement, creativity, and authenticity in learning and teaching. Themes that are explored include: (A) innovation through dialogue and collaboration within the community, (B) play and creatively trying new things despite risks, (C) enjoyment of creative learning and teaching, (D) shared ownership leading to intrinsic motivation and creativity, and (E) creatively challenging the status quo. The author suggests that it is the inclusive processes and products of creativity within co-creation of the curriculum that helps students and staff to develop essential skills and attributes – such as confidence, empathy, and resilience – that help them engage in authentic learning and teaching experiences and learn to cope with supercomplexity in today’s ever-changing world.
Read the full article: Creativity and Collaboration: An Exploration of Empathy, Inclusion, and Resilience in Co-Creation of the Curriculum in the Student Engagement in Higher Education Journal.
