What does it mean to create?
cre·ate[kree-eyt] Show IPA
verb (used with object), cre·at·ed, cre·at·ing.
to cause to come into being, as something unique that would not naturally evolve or that is notmade by ordinary processes.
to evolve from one's own thought or imagination, as a work of art or an invention.
Theater . to perform (a role) for the first time or in the first production of a play.
to make by investing with new rank or by designating; constitute; appoint: to create a peer.
What do we mean when we say "student creation"? If we follow the definition above, any time a student uses his or her imagination they are creating. Right?
But do we really value that definition? Do we value everything student create?
I'm guessing we'd all say yes we value everything students create.
But, sometimes, the EdTech world does not value everything students create. Or, perhaps more accurately, we value them differently.
A student created movie is way more impressive then a short story by that same student.
When we talk about students using technology to create we tend to focus on apps and tools that help students create exciting or flashy products.
Is it because apps and tools that help students create less flashy products are old hat? Are we over them?
I know that I'm more biased to writing. I'm a writer. I love to write. I write for fun. I don't have many students who like to write or consider writing fun. Almost all of them think making a movie is fun. And it is. But someone has to write the script. We need to make sure we value that type of student creation as well.
Think about the last 3 tools you recommended to a teacher or used in your own class. What type of products did these tools help you students create? Let's work to value all types of student products. (and not just technology based products either but, that's a post for another day)
What do you think? Agree? Disagree? Let's talk about it in the comments!