We talk about it in many creative disciplines. Brainstorming is a critical step in the design thinking paradigm but does it really work? In what context does the process work best? In teams or as individuals? Whatever you do, don’t criticize! Learn more here and check out Six Creative Ways to Brainstorm Ideas for techniques.

As I watched Bruce’s TED Talk on agile programming for families, I thought about how this paradigm may be applied to our classroom environment. What would a school look like if the core values of the institution were focused on the adaptability, empowerment, and personal narrative of each student?

A panel discussion hosted by University of California, Berkeley on the global challenges confronting environmental design.

Dr. Diana Oblinger recaps her presentation on designing and enhancing our digital systems to better accommodate students.

You can learn more about Mike Winkelmann’s work and his creative process here: The Creative Spark: Beeple, Everyday Artist. What I appreciate most is his desire to challenge himself to learn and create something new. Mike also encourages artists to share their work with the public. Through exchange and collaboration, we free ourselves from the fear of judgement and focus more on the project than our ego. That’s a good thing!

When I really think about it, I’m very selective about the fonts that I use. For papers and books, I prefer the traditional Times New Roman. Helvetica is also one of my favourites. I’m still trying to find an excuse to use Wingdings. After watching the short video above, I thought about designing my own font. I pondered what it might look like and how I would express the individuality of each letter but yet maintain some continuity. I love how the instructor incorporates M&M’s in the design process (I know I would have devoured mine) and that each member had the opportunity to participate in creating a new font. Very cool and very inspirational.

Graphic designer and problem solver Michael Bierut describes his creative process and method for productivity.

Insightful TED Talk by Don Norman (author of The Design of Everyday Things) on design and emotion. Learn more about his fascinating research and work here.