Dave Maxham on Automaticity: Where 'Rote' Fits into the Liberal Arts

HeightsCast: Forming Men Fully Alive · Mar 26, 2026 · 1h 5m

Could creativity and intellectual freedom actually depend on the rote?

Following up on his recent article for the Forum, math teacher Dave Maxham dives into why fundamentals and drills are integral to creativity—not hindrances. Between the "drill and kill" and the "free inquiry" camps lies the golden mean: an understanding that mastery and even delight in the basics allows for real, nimble handling of creative problems.

Chapters:

3:19 Defining automaticity, creativity

7:09 The automatic enables the creative

15:14 Returning to basics, overcoming boredom

19:14 Struggle and humility bear fruit…