Whether or not innovation can be taught is open to question. Some believe yes, it's possible to teach innovation, while others say not quite, but teaching the mindset necessary to problem-solve in an uncommon way is decidedly teachable.

There are lots of things we need to reinvent, whether it's political or economic structures, environmental solutions, or technological advances. That's going to require schools to teach a new way of thinking that's open to novel and creative resolutions.

I believe fresh and clever brainstorming is the centerpiece of the curriculum. If someone has been taught conventionally, it's going to be a challenge for them to grasp it. Then again, some say if you can't teach the student, then change the culture.

Zeroing in on the word change is the law of life, if you think about it. Change is painful, but nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don't belong. Have you ever heard "if you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change?"

As long as we're talking about innovation, I'm convinced that the greatest discovery of all time is a person who can change his or her future by merely changing their attitude. I know because I did it 38 years ago. And never doubt that innovative thinkers can change the world.

Phil Paleologos is the host of The Phil Paleologos Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Contact him at phil@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @PhilPaleologos. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.

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