We know we can’t predict the future, so why do we try? It seems as though it’s something we can’t help; our brains have developed the need to know what’s coming, to feel certain and secure. In our world of responsibilities, barriers, pitfalls and commitments; as well as achievement, creativity and joy; this need for…
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This week, we’re thrilled to bring you a guest article from dance artist and choreographer, Kimberley Harvey. Kimberley is a longtime member of the Candoco Dance Company, as well as leading her own group, Subtle Kraft Co. This year, Institute of Imagination are proud to have her on the judging panel for our 2019 Cultural Residency which…
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What is normal? Most of us would think that we’re aware of dangerous generalisations, or even prejudices, when it comes to characterising human nature. However, as this thought-provoking article from The Conversation shows, inherent biases can run deep in the research, actually influencing our baseline assumptions without us knowing. Over the last century, behavioural researchers…
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We’re pleased to share this interview by Rob Hopkins, a friend of the Institute of Imagination, in conversation with researcher and illustrator James McKay exploring his work presenting ideas about the future. This is a really great example of STEAM learning; using creativity to communicate ideas about science. Read about where James gets his ideas and how he makes his…
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We’re always interested in reading about new approaches to learning. Here, some teachers in the US are questioning homework. We don’t think there’s one right way, however, there are important things we can learn from new ideas. It’s vital that we constantly assess how we think about independent learning, and that we don’t miss any…
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What constitutes a child’s bedroom; is it just the space they sleep in or should it be something more? These images from the Foundling Museum’s new exhibition paint a stark contrast with our understanding of what should be a place of comfort and safety. As this article from The Guardian explores, with the occupants removed there’s…
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Today on Imagination Matters, we welcome Imogen Lycett Green, Prize Director at the Betjeman Poetry Prize. Imogen has shared with us an article that she found particularly meaningful on the importance of teaching poetry. We’re pleased to share her introduction to the article: Some poems are easy to comprehend, but poetic imagery and metaphor –…
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While there’s still a lot of work to do, this is some great news about innovation in the area of communication. Finding a way for computers to understand brain waves and help those who have lost the power of speech due to accident or illness will be invaluable. No one should lose the ability to…
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The experience of working (and playing) together is one of our biggest causes at IM. What’s interesting about this article from Big Think is what the research means for us in our daily lives. While fascinating to identify the varied areas of the brain and motives involved, it’s what we make of this that matters. Linking…
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A couple of weeks ago we looked at what hit the headlines in science in 2018. Now it’s time to get the popular predictions on what will be making us think in 2019. Will what we discovered in 2018 inform the agenda this year? Of course, no one can predict the future, much less what we’ll…
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