Denver, CO, March 11th, 2024: Think 360 Arts for Learning, in collaboration with the University of Northern Colorado (UNC), is excited to announce the 2024 Institute for Creative Teaching (ICT). Celebrating its 35th anniversary, this immersive three day event at the UNC Greeley campus invites educators, teaching artists, and UNC students to explore the transformative power of storytelling and world-building in education.
Scheduled for June 11th to June 13th, the 2024 ICT offers professional development designed to empower educators to infuse narrative and imaginative elements into their teaching practices. With a focus on trauma-informed practices, culturally responsive teaching, and engaging learners of different abilities, this year’s Institute is poised to revolutionize educational approaches. Participants will engage in experiential workshops and creative exercises led by a diverse and interdisciplinary cohort of Think 360 Arts’ teaching artists and UNC educators. These sessions are designed to empower participants to synthesize their learning and seamlessly apply it across diverse learning environments, fostering a deeper understanding of the content.
For the first time in its 35-year history, ICT will feature renowned keynote speakers who are masters of storytelling through their art: Virgil Ortiz and Kristina Maldonado Bad Hand. Their insights will offer attendees a deeper understanding of how narratives can shape learning experiences and foster cultural understanding. Additionally, participants will embark on a unique learning journey with Meow Wolf, a leader in immersive and interactive storytelling experiences, gaining innovative ideas and approaches to integrate into their teaching practices, further enhancing engagement and learning outcomes.
Upon completion of the Institute, participants will earn 24 hours of continuing education credit toward re-licensure. Additionally, there is an opportunity to earn 1 graduate credit hour from UNC for an additional fee, providing educators with valuable professional development opportunities.
“As we mark our 35th year of the Institute for Creative Teaching, we’re thrilled to continue our legacy of bringing together educators, artists, and students for this transformative experience,” said Daisy McGowan, Executive Director at Think 360 Arts for Learning. “This milestone reminds us of our vital commitment to providing innovative learning experiences that shape the future of education.”
Join us to harness the power of storytelling and world-building in your teaching, creating captivating and educational experiences.
For more information and to register visit: https://think360arts.org/program/professional-development
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About Think 360 Arts for Learning: Think 360 Arts is a leading provider of arts education programs and services in Colorado. Think 360 Arts serves Coloradans of all ages through teaching artist workshops and residencies, direct services in the classroom, teacher training, professional development, early childhood education, and community programs. Through our work, Think 360 Arts is committed to ensuring all communities can experience the transformative benefits of arts education. Think 360 Arts is an independent affiliate of Young Audiences and an affiliate of Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts. For more information, please visit www.think360arts.org.
About UNC College of Performing and Visual Arts: UNC’s College of Performing and Visual Arts provides a comprehensive arts education that prepares students to be flexible, innovative and well-rounded emerging professional artists, arts educators and scholars. As a cultural hub of UNC, the college celebrates creativity with the university, local community, surrounding region and wider arts world. For more information, visit arts.unco.edu.