SUBSCRIBE FOR ONLY $16.99!

Is There a Formula to Create a Genius?

Advertisement

By Albert Roberts

Is there a formula that can be used to create a genius? This question typically relates to debates over whether someone has the innate ability to be a genius, or whether they can have their talents developed by parents and teachers over time through study and practice. In this context, how would someone like pianist Glenn Gould or an Albert Einstein be people that could be aspired towards? Does genius actually break down to a formula, or are there more intangible factors in play that can’t be reproduced?

In terms of innate ability, it’s difficult to define the term genius—clearly it refers to someone that’s of high intelligence, and that can synthesize a lot of information; geniuses are also typically creative, and show their prodigious talents at a young age. Most child prodigies tend to demonstrate extraordinary skills in mathematics or music, and can then grow up into world class talents who make breakthroughs in their fields.

There’s no DNA sequence that can be used to define a genius, although there have been studies carried out of Einstein’s brain that suggests some unique patterns. Generally, it’s best to think about the biological ability to be a genius as one that is distinguished by an exceptional memory and cognitive skills; this can vary, though, on a genius by genius basis, and can’t be reduced to a single set of abilities.

Another argument, however, suggests that genius is something that can be encouraged through rigorous application and hard work—Malcolm Gladwell builds on the research of Anders Ericsson to argue that, while many children have a biological advantage in terms of their brain chemistry, true geniuses need to put in about 10 years of solid work and training before they can truly master their field; this distinction is often one that means that many child prodigies do not grow up to fulfill their early potential.

In this context, it’s possible for parents to encourage the capacity for genius, or at least above average knowledge, by working with them at an early age to build up skills—reading to kids from as young an age as possible can help, as can stimulating them through PBS and other educational children’s programs; schools also need to be able to identify and help children that show some evidence of gifted ability to receive the right kind of work. Having a good combination of home and school work will give children plenty of options to develop at their own pace.

Giving children as many options as possible to reach their own potential is crucial, although it’s not always easy to know how they’ll respond; some children just won’t take to the piano, or they might show an early talent in a subject, and then not be able to sustain that over time. Remember, though, that younger children can absorb and process much more information than when they’re older. Stimulating children with intellectual material is consequently important, even if there may not (sadly) be a formula for generating a genius.

Albert Roberts is a secondary school teacher in the UK. He found his job by looking through GSL Education’s secondary teacher jobs in London. Over the years he has had many different roles. Albert likes to blog about the different aspects of inspiring young minds.

Avatar photo

TEACH is the largest national education publication in Canada. We support good teachers and teaching and believe in innovation in education.

Education News

Common Sense Media Launches New Digital Literacy & Well-Being Curriculum

Revamped curriculum features lessons on online safety, building healthy mindsets, managing screen time, AI literacy, and more.

The Secret to Thriving Schools? Parents Who Feel Safe and Heard

To create a culture of safety and help parents feel confident sending their children to school, school leaders must communicate with families about the safety measures that are in place.

New Book from NYC Science Teacher Strives to Reimagine Education in Urban Classrooms

In "Learning Environment," award-winning New York City science teacher Dr. Fox transforms traditional instruction into immersive, justice-driven learning.

Turning Pages, Turning Up: Tackling Absenteeism Through Reading Culture

Across the nation, educators are facing a growing crisis of chronic absenteeism. And while interventions often focus on remediation or outreach, one Title I school in Kentucky tried a different solution: running school-wide reading challenges.

Join Our Newsletter

Join now for a chance to win 1 of 2 $25 Indigo e-gift cards this month!

TEACH Magazine
TEACH Magazine
TEACH is the largest national education publication in Canada. We support good teachers and teaching and believe in innovation in education.

Advertisement

Read More

3 Places to Buy Sensory Toys Online for Special Needs Students

Explore sensory toys that support focus, calming, and skill-building for students with special needs—plus where to find them online.

Ditch the Desk and Embrace the Flex

I began the school year in a classroom with eighteen standard desks. Today, I have none. This isn’t a lament about budgetary constraints or overcrowded classrooms; it’s a deliberate choice.

Common Sense Media Launches New Digital Literacy & Well-Being Curriculum

Revamped curriculum features lessons on online safety, building healthy mindsets, managing screen time, AI literacy, and more.

The Secret to Thriving Schools? Parents Who Feel Safe and Heard

To create a culture of safety and help parents feel confident sending their children to school, school leaders must communicate with families about the safety measures that are in place.

New Book from NYC Science Teacher Strives to Reimagine Education in Urban Classrooms

In "Learning Environment," award-winning New York City science teacher Dr. Fox transforms traditional instruction into immersive, justice-driven learning.

Back-to-School Must-Haves: Transform Your Classroom with These Indispensable Items

With the right tools and products at your side, you can turn the chaotic transition from summer break back to school into a smooth ride.
betvip casino | grande vegas casino | slots casino las vegas | como ganar dinero con una cuenta de instagram | sportiumbet | tips para la ruleta | bet caliente casino | plataforma para ganar dinero por internet | casino palace cancun | casinos bonos bienvenida gratis sin depósito en méxico 2021 | como ganar en las maquinas de casino | imagenes de casino | casino de los burocratas | libro ruleta | como funciona calientemx | comp hacer una ruleta | grand lisboa casino | incendio en casino | casino online sin deposito | winner casino online | juegos de casino ruleta | dragonary ganar dinero | captain jack casino | premios ruleta casino | slots gratis | pop slots free chips | apuestas betsson bono | linea caliente | comunicaciones vs monterrey donde ver | ganar dinero enviando emails | casino max | strendus app | neta bet | ganar dinero con encuestas pagadas 2018 | casino romano | lopesan costa bávaro resort spa & casino | nuevos casinos online | ganabet casino online | casino condesa real | casino en linea sin deposito | play casino | terminal casino de la selva cuernavaca | ganar dinero llenando encuestas paypal | jackpot party casino | maquinas tragamonedas japonesas | como ganar dinero en pornohub | panda slots | momios caliente | aplicaciones para adultos para ganar dinero | ganar dinero haciendo recargas | casino online deposit paypal | sunset station hotel and casino | casino de apuestas | como ganar dinero con mi pagina de facebook 2017 | calientesports mx n | ruleta online de preguntas | atencion a clientes caliente | ganar dinero manualidades con reciclaje para vender |