Innovation beyond technology
I recently visited the town of El Nido, Philippines. It is a small community on the north tip of the island of Palawan in the Philippines. It is considered the gateway to the Bacuit archipelago, a group of islands with steep karst cliffs. The natural beauty in the area is completely stunning and pictures will never do it justice. Steep cliffs jutting straight out of vibrant blue water, complimented with greenery surrounding the cliffs is absolutely awe-inspiring!
The people are friendly, kind and so very generous. Truly a pleasure to talk to the people and learn more about the beautiful place they call home. Aside from the breathtaking views there was something I noticed while I was in El Nido. They are so innovative with how they build and design. And this is evidenced everywhere you go! For example, one of their main modes of transportation is a tricycle. This is essentially a dirt bike fitted with a third wheel, side seat and a roof. They are very efficient and can go almost anywhere.
Honestly when I think about innovation the first thing that comes to my mind is technology. Of course when pushing the boundaries in school, innovation seems to be connected to the newest technology and how it is being used in the classroom. What I found being in El Nido was that my students necessarily need to have technology to be innovative. In fact, there are a lot things they can dream up and create only using simple supplies. Why don't I provide more opportunities for them to be truly creative and innovative? Of course there needs to be order and guidelines, but I know an essential part of learning is trying and experimenting. Who knows what they will end up with? So at a future time when I am back in the classroom and doing a project with my students, I hope to remember the people of El Nido and let my students have freedom to be innovative.
PS- If you have never been to El Nido, I highly recommend it! El Nido and the surrounding islands are just so beautiful, truly paradise.
Yes, I have been to El Nido! I lived in the Philippines for 3 years! I love their hospitality! Very interesting people, some intrude a lot in personal matters, but that’s not why I am writing. I think like you said innovation should come with technology, but that is not necessary the only way. Possibilities I can think of are changing and enhancing the curriculum into more holistic teachings such as meditations or yoga. Another example is adding reading time for reflections and relaxation or a day to take hike or be part of a sports event for charity, there are many possibilities. In science you can add a day in the museums, galleries, national sites, parks are some other examples of innovation. I believe enhancing the curriculum in more practical examples, such as using Legos, engineering or robotics, coding, building a startup company, more science projects on chemistry, physics, or biology. If you are a spiritual, a chapel session once a week, or drama and improv to modeling events. Those experiences I mentioned I have fulfilled in some form or way.
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