This week I find Sternberg’s theory of successful intelligence
fascinating. In this theory, there are three main abilities discussed, which
are analytic, creative, and practical ability. An individual who has an
analytic ability has the skill to analyze problems and create solutions. This is
the first ability mentioned in this theory.
Those with creative abilities have the skill to adjust to certain
situations and problems. I liked the example in the textbook where the girl is
going on a long car trip and discovered her IPod is broken. She adapted to her
situation and found something else to occupy her time. I think more children in
this generation need to hone in on this skill. The last ability that was
pointed out was the practical ability. Anyone with this skill has the
intelligence to know which solution will most likely fix their problem. All
three of these abilities are problem solving skills which are useful throughout
our lives.
I have a 15 year old brother who is severely lacking in the
creative ability. He has to have his IPad at his fingertips and if does not
have it he is at a loss of what to do to with his time, and Instead of finding
something to entertain himself with. He will complain about being bored and
having nothing to do. If he had an
acquired creative ability he could find many things to entertain himself. After
all, this is the 21st century, what’s not to do?
I would like to learn more about the effects technology has
on one’s development. Could this be the reason why my brother cannot entertain
himself unless he has his IPad?
Technology plays a huge role in development. If I think back to when i was a child i didn't have a gadget to get it done for me. Instead of being outside learning through smell, touch etc.(being creative), kids are sitting in front of the newest technology.
ReplyDeleteI'm wondering Dawna, if your brother is not so much lacking in creativity, as he's simply not made the effort to explore other aspects of his personality/talents (or been guided). Perhaps it's been easier to follow the digital pathway. Also, the car-gal was forced by circumstances to adapt or not. She chose to adapt.
ReplyDeleteThat said, who's to say that the digital generation isn't being creative with their devices. I suppose it depends on what they do with them and if they use them for creative purposes, learning, critical thinking. I'd venture a guess that is not the case with many. Considering your brother's age, he's dealing with Erikson's Identity/Role Confusion stage. Perhaps he is avoiding dealing with who he is and/or may become.
Moderation is perhaps a more beneficial approach, but it takes skillful/dedicated parenting. But it will require some guidance and introduction to alternatives by the parents; and that may well involve life/family style changes - not just talking at the kids. In our overly busy lives, it may be easiest to just let kids keep occupied with the digital stuff. Too much of anything isn't helpful in development - except love.