Each and every child is born into this world as a natural genius. (Did you know the root meaning of “genius” is “to be born”?) In this presentation, author Dr. Thomas Armstrong will describe the four qualities of genius in students: creativity, curiosity, imagination, and inventiveness. He will explain how the development of the human brain in childhood and adolescence provides a neurological framework for understanding this genius. And he will discuss his ‘’genius’’ approach to learning, which celebrates, fosters and supports the natural genius that is every student’s birthright, and incorporates the broader community as a key partner in learning projects. Finally,
Tom will provide examples of how this approach can help take the MicroSociety model beyond its current applications and extend students’ abilities to generate their own ideas, test them, and express them in practical ways that benefit the world around them.  

Suggested reading:  Thomas Armstrong,  Awakening Genius in the Classroom (ASCD).