Nov 02, 2011

Insights of an innovation expert illustrated by creative photography

“Innovation in Education: Lessons from Pioneers around the World”


Doha, Qatar – November, 2 2011. The first publication commissioned by the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) has been launched at this leading international initiative’s third annual Summit in Doha, Qatar. 

Innovation in Education: Lessons from Pioneers around the World is an international reference guide to best practices in education. The book looks at how innovation in education happens, the people behind the projects, and at when and how initiatives can be expanded and replicated. 

The book is the fruit of collaboration between innovation specialist Charles Leadbeater, co-author of a 2010 publication on the future of schools called Learning from the Extremes, and renowned photographer Romain Staros Staropoli. It is published by Bloomsbury Qatar Foundation Publishing.

Over a period of six months, the author and photographer visited projects in Brazil, Canada, Colombia, India, Jordan, Morocco, the Netherlands, Palestine, Paraguay, Qatar, South Africa, Turkey, Uganda, and the USA. They explored initiatives in remote rural areas and at the heart of prestigious campuses. They encountered traditional education infrastructures in need of renewal and emerging systems which lack funding but are energized by engaged local populations.  

Sixteen projects are featured in the publication, most of them winners and finalists of WISE Awards over the past three years. The book highlights innovations which increase access to education for groups outside the mainstream, and it considers the competencies that should be taught for the future, such as intercultural understanding, creative thinking and team working.

”The people I met during my research were highly motivated individuals who care about what’s happening on a practical level. They share a commitment to education and to learning from others. I was particularly inspired by projects which demonstrated great creativity in adverse circumstances, and which showed a capacity for replication elsewhere,” said Charles Leadbeater.


An Inspiring Study 

Innovation in Education: Lessons from Pioneers around the World challenges traditional views of education. The publication brings innovative, real-life models to a wider audience through a unique blend of field research and creative photography.

“Since its inception in 2009, WISE has talked about education in a new way and has acted upon its fresh thinking. This publication is aligned with our innovative approach. It aims to increase awareness of the importance of education among leaders and the general public, raising the subject to the top of the international agenda alongside other matters of major concern such as economics and sustainable development.” H.E. Abdulla bin Ali Al-Thani Ph.D., Chairman of WISE, Qatar Foundation.

The book is evidence of the WISE commitment to offer a platform for sharing and spreading best practices from various sectors, cultures and countries. 


“Radical innovation often seems to come from outsiders to education who are not part of conventional thinking. A flow of outside innovators into education is needed to challenge orthodoxy and introduce new ideas.” wrote Charles Leadbeater.  

Note to journalists:
The book “Innovation in Education: Lessons from Pioneers around the World” is published by Bloomsbury Qatar Foundation Publishing. Paperback edition of the book will first be available in the United Kingdom for 24.99£ as of January 2012.


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About the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE)
WISE is dedicated to building the future of education through innovation. This global collaborative initiative was inaugurated in 2009 by the Qatar Foundation, under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. Its mission is to address the challenges facing 21^st century education, to expand dialogue around the world and to implement practical and sustainable solutions. With this purpose, WISE holds an annual international summit that provides a unique platform and meeting place for thought leaders and experts to share best practices about education. WISE is also a year-round initiative devoted to reaching outside the traditional circles of the education community to promote innovation and implement concrete actions. The WISE 2011 Summit will take place in Doha, Qatar, 1-3 November 2011. Full details on the WISE website: www.wise-qatar.org