Creative
Learning
Conference

The CREATE Method for Educators

November 13th 2024

Dupage Children's Museum in Naperville, Illinois

Your Hosts

Katie Trowbridge, M.A.T. M.Ed

Dr. Cyndi Burnett

Beth Slazak, MS, M.B.A

Featuring creativity and education experts: Dr. Cyndi Burnett, Katie Trowbridge, and Beth Slazak. This highly interactive workshop will provide you with tools and techniques that will help you:

Increase Engagment

Integrating creative thinking into the classroom can transform the way students engage with learning. When students are encouraged to explore ideas in innovative and personal ways, the material becomes more relevant and exciting for them, sparking a deeper connection to the subject matter. This not only boosts their enthusiasm but also increases active participation. In fact, research from the National Center for Education Statistics shows that students in creativity-rich environments are 20% more likely to express genuine interest in their learning. By fostering creativity, educators can ignite a passion for learning that keeps students eager and engaged.

Reduce Absenteeism

Imagine a classroom where students are not just present but eager to engage because the learning environment sparks their creativity and curiosity. By weaving creative thinking into your teaching strategies, you can make this a reality and significantly reduce chronic absenteeism. Research backs this up: Ohio schools that embraced a creative, positive approach to discipline saw a 5.4% lower rate of chronic absenteeism compared to those that stuck with traditional methods, meaning thousands more students stayed in school regularly (Phys.org). Moreover, a positive school climate—fueled by creativity—not only attracts students back to the classroom but also keeps them there, engaged and ready to learn (Edutopia). By fostering an environment where creativity thrives, you’re not just teaching; you’re inspiring students to show up and participate every day.

Increase Creative and Critical Thinking Skills

Imagine a classroom where students are not just absorbing information but are actively questioning, analyzing, and creating—skills that are essential for thriving in the ever-evolving future. By incorporating creative and critical thinking into your teaching, you’re equipping students with the tools they need to become lifelong learners, ready to tackle complex challenges and adapt to new situations. Research shows that students who develop strong creative and critical thinking skills are better prepared for future learning, as these skills enhance their ability to problem-solve and innovate across various fields (Edutopia). Additionally, schools that emphasize these skills see improved academic outcomes and a greater sense of student ownership over their learning (Phys.org). By fostering an environment where creative and critical thinking are at the core, you’re not just teaching students facts; you’re preparing them to be the adaptable, innovative thinkers our future demands.

Improve Behavior

Imagine a classroom where challenging behaviors are not just managed but transformed through the power of creative thinking. By incorporating creativity into behavior management strategies, educators can turn disruptive behaviors into opportunities for growth and connection. Research highlights that innovative approaches to classroom management, such as encouraging students to think like artists or designers, reduce disruptive behaviors and enhance student engagement and cooperation. For instance, when students are given creative outlets to express themselves, they are more likely to develop self-regulation and a sense of responsibility for their actions (Edutopia). Additionally, proactive strategies that involve understanding the root causes of behaviors and using creative problem-solving can lead to a more harmonious and productive classroom environment (Milligan College Library). By fostering creativity, you’re not just addressing behavior issues; you’re empowering students to take ownership of their actions and contribute positively to the classroom community.

This One Day Workshop Will

Explore creative and critical thinking skills, meaning, myths, and realities.

Demonstrate engaging strategies for incorporating creative and critical thinking into all levels and content

Highlight the need for creative and critical thinking in education today.

Revise a current unit/lesson using the CREATE Method with practical and relevant strategies.

Space Is Limited, So Guarantee Your Spot,
Register Now

Full Day Conference Access $250

What's Included

A Full Day of Content

Experience a full day of research-backed sessions and workshops that will walk you through the CREATE Method.

Inspiring Keynote Session

Get motivated with our nationally known experts in creativity and education and learn about the difference between creative learning and creative teaching.

Hands-On Workshop

Use the strategies you learned right away through our guided hands-on workshops, where we take you through the CREATE Method to create a new and exciting lesson plan.

Free Goodies and Giveaways

Everyone gets an exclusive bag full of awesome goodies and the chance to win fantastic giveaways from our sponsors!

Explore the DuPage Children's Museum

Arrive Early and get an exclusive 50 minutes to explore the Dupage Children's Museum at will. Let your inner child out to play!

Network With Local Educators

Connect with and collaborate with local educators and create a community of creative educators.

Scholarships are Available!

We are pleased to offer scholarships to help cover the cost of the conference for teachers who would like to attend but may face financial challenges. Our goal is to ensure that all educators have the opportunity to participate and benefit from the event. Everyone is encouraged to apply, and we are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming experience for all. If you would like to utilize the scholarship, please reach out to Katelyn Moon at kmm@curiosity2create.org BEFORE registering for the event.

Limited Spots ONLY!

Get All Day Access for $250

We only have room for a few people at this conference, so get registered today before space runs out!

Testimonials

"Thank you so much for your wonderful presentation. I have been telling all my colleagues about it at LT as one of the best presentations I've been to."

- English Teacher

Lyons Township High School

What is The CREATE Method?

The CREATE Method is an innovative approach designed by teachers for teachers to help reinvigorate your classroom with creative thinking and problem-solving skills. Our method is built around six unique steps that will help you transform your classroom experience, tailored to your unique needs as an educator. Each classroom, teacher, and student is different, and The CREATE Method embraces this diversity, allowing for a personalized application that meets your specific educational goals.

Creative learning can transform our classrooms and tackle today's biggest challenges: engagement, absenteeism, and deeper thinking. By weaving creative thinking into our lessons, we can captivate our students' imaginations and make learning an experience they don't want to miss.

Research shows that when students actively engage in meaningful and relevant tasks, they develop essential problem-solving and analytical skills. That's why it's crucial for instructional coaches to arm themselves with evidence-based strategies that show teachers how to infuse creativity into their curriculum in practical ways. Doing so can create dynamic learning environments that inspire our students and foster a lifelong love of learning.

Why Creative Learning is Important

Want to Sponsor?

Curiosity Champion Tier

$500

Creativity Champion Tier

$1000

CREATE Champion Tier

$2000

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I am an instructional coach? That’s perfectly fine. This workshop is tailored for anyone who wants to learn how to increase engagement by infusing creative and critical thinking into curriculum. The CREATE Method is designed by teachers for teachers therefore, the techniques and strategies you will learn at this event will address common challenges making it valuable for any educator looking to impact student learning, engagement, creative and critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

Can we pay by check? Yes, you can pay by check. *Please make checks payable to Curiosity2Create Foundation and include the reason for payment in the memo (Creative Learning Conference). If sending via mail, please mail to 236 Dalton Circle, Saint Augustine, FL 32092.

I need an invoice/receipt for reimbursement purposes. How can I get one? You will automatically receive an invoice and proof of purchase via email upon registration. This documentation can be used for reimbursement purposes. If you have any issues or need further assistance, please contact us.

I have more questions. Who can I contact? Please feel free to email us at beth@curiosity2create.org

How can I bring Curiosity 2 Create to my school or district? We work with schools and districts nationwide and would happily discuss your needs. Please use the following link and provide us with the important information and our our team will be in touch with you right away

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Creative Learning Conference