In this article, I focus on three defining characteristics of group creativity: improvisation, collaboration and emergence. To demonstrate these three characteristics, I present several examples of group creativity in both music and theater. Then I explore how structure and improvisation are always both present in group creativity. Improvisations…

This article draws on systems views of creativity and their application in music education, to argue that young children's independent invented song making evolves from their early musico-communicative interaction with others, is evidential of their capacity for "elaboration," and is foundational in the development of creative thought and activity…

In the statistical and transcriptional analyses reported in this exploratory study, original rhythms of 6-11-year-old children (N=36) were examined. The hypotheses were based on a new model of musical development, and tested empirically using non-pitch rhythmic improvisation in a MIDI-environment. Several representational types were found in…

The purpose of this study was to examine the gender differences in the social-psychological constructs of confidence, anxiety, and attitude as they relate to jazz improvisation participation. Three subscales of the Fennema-Sherman Mathematics Attitude Survey (1976) were modified for this task, and surveys (N = 332) were given to students of…

Valentine's Day activities which include a play, music, poetry, and numerous art and craft projects are presented in this compilation from February issues of "Instructor" magazine. The short and easy projects, suitable for primary and elementary students, use inexpensive and easily found materials such as paper, cloth, yarn, magazine…

Music, which moves a child as it does an adult through song and dance, can very well stimulate, support, and inspire a beginning reading program. (Author)

Discusses ways that elementary music teachers can design class activities which will meet individual needs of mainstreamed special students. Activities described encompass a wide range of difficulty and provide opportunities for individualized, small-group or out-of-class instruction and for creative response. (AM)

The author describes the three-phase process of musical creativity (exploratory, invention, organizational), identifying activities in each of the creative phases. Included are vocal impression, picture sounds, chord tones, and name improvisation. Selected readings and recordings are included. (KC)

Contemporary media, including films, music, tape, and filmstrips, which are appropriate in religion classes and in value education are discussed. Reviews of 75 short films describe the film and in most cases also give discussion questions. Distributors and rental charges are included. Popular folk and rock songs pertinent to contemporary issues…

Ways in which education for the use of leisure time can be integrated with existing curriculum areas are explored. (GW)

Discusses children's tastes in music and reviews children's books that have music as a theme. Presents a creative activities sampler for younger and older children as well as a list of resources, including books and films. (LRW)

A discussion of ways an adult can encourage and participate in a child's self-expression through movement and dance. (BD)

Numerous ways are discussed in which teachers can make creative additions to the nursery school curriculum in activities related to science, creative arts, outdoor play, dramatics, music, and language arts. (BP)

SPECIAL EDUCATORS, PHYSICAL EDUCATORS, PARENTS, AND VOLUNTEERS CAN PROVIDE RECREATION FOR THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED. BACKGROUND INFORMATION ABOUT THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED AND THEIR SPECIAL NEEDS IN A RECREATIONAL PROGRAM ARE CONSIDERED. OBJECTIVES OF PLAY AND OF RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS AND SUGGESTIONS FOR PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION AND INSTRUCTION ARE…