Beyond squares and flakes: Practising collective creative metacognition to engage tensions with arts-based teaching in adult education

Amy Zidulka; Marnie Jull; Catherine Etmanski

doi:10.3384/rela.2000-7426.6287

Authors

Amy Zidulka Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Royal Roads University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6871-5446
Marnie Jull Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Royal Roads University
Catherine Etmanski Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Royal Roads University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9696-5063

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3384/rela.2000-7426.6287

Keywords:

creative metacognition, collective creative metacognition, arts-based research, arts-based adult education, arts-based pedagogy

Abstract

Many adult educators support arts-based methods to spark discovery and influence change. Concurrently, other scholars express caution about such creative approaches because they may lead to unintended consequences like resistance or alienation. As three adult educators from separate departments brought together by a university reorganisation, we reflect on our differing experiences with arts-based teaching. Informed by critical friendship, narrative inquiry, and critical incident analysis, we explore the concept of creative metacognition as situated self-awareness of one’s (a) creative strengths and (b) contextual conditions. Using the humorous terms squares and flakes to caricature pedagogical norms with arts-based approaches, we examine our motivations and rationales. In doing so, we practise collective creative metacognition to uncover themes and tensions about applying arts-based methods with mid-career adult learners. Our inquiry encourages dialogue and respect for divergent approaches to arts-based methods in adult education and also promotes collective creative metacognition as a helpful practice.

Author Biographies

Amy Zidulka, Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Royal Roads University

Dr. Amy Zidulka is an Associate Professor in the School of Business and serves as Co-Director of the Centre for Creative Changemaking. She teaches creativity, innovation, and strategic management and leads the MBA program's capstone strategy residency experience.

Marnie Jull, Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Royal Roads University

Dr. Marnie Jull is an associate professor in the School of Leadership Studies at Royal Roads University and former head of the MA in Conflict Analysis and Management program. A scholar-practitioner with over 20 years of experience, she specializes in conflict, leadership, and systems thinking, with a focus on cultivating insight, collaboration, and meaningful change.

Catherine Etmanski, Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Royal Roads University

Catherine Etmanski, PhD, is a Professor in the School of Leadership Studies (SLS). Since joining RRU in 2012, she has served in a number of administrative and service roles, including as SLS School Director, Program Head or Acting Program Head for three leadership programs, Thesis Coordinator, member of the Research Ethics Board, Accessibility Advisory Committee, Internal Communications Advisory Committee, Guiding Committee for RRU Food Production, Prevention & Response to Sexual Violence & Misconduct Advisory Committee, Diversity Action group, University Conversions and Promotions Committee, RRUFA Member at Large, ALT/SEM/Curriculum Committee-Extended, and more.

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