“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them”. Albert Einstein calls on us to create our problems rationally, and solve them creatively. In fact some of the leading educational scholars believe developing creativity in the early stages of a child’s development is more valuable in 21st century learning than even more traditional studies such as reading, writing and arithmetic.

 

Importance of creativity in 21st century learning

 

One reason for the shift in learning importance of creativity could be explained by the emergence of 21st century technology, such as word processing apps and calculators that make performing essential skills easier than ever before. Basic skills that were once valued in school curriculums can now be automatically performed by machines or with smart phone apps. The framework for 21st century learning is now described as the 4 c’s which is critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and creativity, all of which is emphasized when a student study music.

 

Music makes you smarter

 

As a result of the shifting education paradigms students who study creativity programs such as music greatly benefit cognitively more than students who don’t take music lessons. According to a study conducted by Takako Fujioka from the Baycrest Rotman Research Institute in Toronto, Canada, musical training affected normal brain development in young children, making music students score 25 percent better on cognitive assessments than students with no musical training.

 

Additional benefits of music lessons

 

Music lessons help in developing a students imagination when a music student interpret music literature, through song, rhythm and movement, leading to improving a child’s skill in critical thinking, innovation and adaptability.

 

Second, as students develop perseverance through self-direction in music lessons, students learn self-discipline to better analyze, interpret music and synthesize information such as musical notes to create various musical styles in a fun and ear pleasing way.

 

Finally, through project based/goal oriented learning students are encouraged to collaborate with other musicians to produce entertaining performances that build self-esteem and confidence.

 

The future of education

 

Just as in the past 20 years and the impact of the inventions of the internet and smartphones drastically changed the paradigms of education and our lives in almost every way, the next 20 years will be just as unpredictable as the last. One thing is clear however, skills such as creativity, innovation and adaptability will continue to grow more essential. Thus, the greatest investment a parent can make in their child’s future is enrolling them in creativity based programs such as the programs at Hillcrest School of Music.

 

Darnell Moore, director/owner Hillcrest School of music

B.A. Michigan State University

M.Ed. Columbus State University