Idea creation: the need to develop creativity in lifelong learning practices

Abstract

This paper considers what the idea of creativity can mean and how it can contribute when creativity becomes a key to the development of lifelong learning practices. It seeks to adapt or extend our understanding of creativity in an attempt to facilitate the development of lifelong learning. This paper argues that, while the classical concern around developing creativity mainly derives from humans’ interest in the possibility of designing, producing or inventing things to change human life, the idea of creativity in relation to the development of lifelong learning practices tends more towards an emphasis on producing ideas meant to deal with unpredictability and contestability in a knowledge‐based society. The main body of the paper is theoretical in its orientation. The structure of this paper is as follows. First, the essential characteristics of creativity are explored as a basis for understanding what meanings it may offer to the development of lifelong learning practices. Then, the issues of why creativity is required and how it may be seen as distinctive in lifelong learning practices are addressed. The discussion centres upon the significance of creativity and its characteristic features when it is embedded in lifelong learning practices. Finally, this paper considers Deleuze’s thought concerning the principles of association and passion as useful in illuminating the formation of pedagogical practices that encourage creativity, which, in turn, could assist in the effective development of lifelong learning practices.