Module 1- Defining Terms and Concepts

I really enjoyed our definition and concept focused mentality in the course. I think one of the most important aspects of any academic course is to be sure that there is a consensus of understanding when it comes to what is being studied and discussed. I have found it very important and helpful to remember to address that each of us has a different definition for our terms and that is a good thing. I'll continue to update my definitions here for the remainder of the course. Here are my definitions and questions so far:

Creativity: Creativity is the process of creation. It is making something distinct which did not exist in its capacity or at all before. It is the process of using our faculties in a unique way to make something new.

(unchanged)

Innovation: Innovation is an act, process, methodology or ideology that improves and facilitates something with an intended positive outcome.

(I have added the word 'intended' because short and long term outcomes can differ. Teaching a student to be a ruthless debater can be beneficial when the curriculum demands knowledge of debate, but not when it requires rational discussion of sensitive subjects. Another example I thought of is the mining of coal- initially it was the engine of industrial society, and now it is the engine of environmental decay. This is why it is important for innovation to be a constant process, a series of acts that are beneficial.)

Teaching: The passing on of knowledge or methods for acquiring knowledge, be they cultural or instinctive. Vocationally this includes motivation, goal setting, evaluation and an encouraging growth.

(I added the vocational aspect to this section because I felt that I should address teaching from a professional standpoint as well as a conceptual one as I move forward in this course.)

Learning: Learning is the process of acquiring new knowledge, skills or methods of learning through general experience or specific instruction. It is also the process of refining and connecting/ incorporating knowledge so that it is workable within one’s own parameters.

(I added connecting/ incorporating here because of the creative aspect of learning and the use of abstract thought.)

Questions:

Why are our definitions so different? What is it about these concepts that makes them difficult to pinpoint, especially for professionals who use the terms and think about them each day?

How has society changed our view of the concepts we are looking at? With particular emphasis on 'innovation' I have noticed a marked trend toward equating creativity and innovation with monetary value or productivity. Are they necessary to our definitions?

Should teachers exercise a monopoly on the terms teaching and learning? Would it be better for the whole of society to be more liberal in their ideas of education, teaching and learning? Allowing them to be processed outside of school?