How Traditional Educational System Is Affecting The Creativity Of Students
Creativity is often seen as a desirable and valuable skill in the modern world, especially in the context of innovation and entrepreneurship. However, creativity is not something that can be easily taught or learned conventionally. The traditional educational system often prioritizes conformity, standardized testing, and memorization over creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. This can stifle students’ creativity by discouraging them from exploring unconventional ideas or approaches.
Additionally, rigid curricula and strict grading criteria may limit opportunities for experimentation and risk-taking, which are essential for fostering creativity. As a result, many students may feel pressured to prioritize role learning and conformity rather than developing their unique creative abilities. The traditional school system often places a low value on creativity, and as a result, many students are not allowed to develop and express their creative potential.
Figure 1: Brigitte Andrade Gallery. (2024) Creative Image. [Online image] [Accessed on the 24th of April,2024] https://www.brigitteandradeartgallery.com/
Some challenges affect the development of creativity in traditional education systems. Lack of autonomy and choice; Students are often expected to follow a predetermined path of learning, without much room for exploration, experimentation, or personalization. They may not have the opportunity to pursue their interests, passions, or questions, which are essential for sparking creativity.
Lack of diversity and collaboration; Students are often grouped by age, ability, or subject, without much exposure to different perspectives, cultures, or disciplines. They may not have the chance to interact with peers or mentors who can challenge, inspire, or support them in their creative endeavors.
Lack of feedback and recognition also affect the development of creativity. Students are often evaluated by standardized measures, such as test scores, grades, or rankings, which may not capture the nuances, complexities, or potentials of their creative work. They may not receive constructive feedback or recognition for their efforts, achievements, or failures, which are crucial for enhancing creativity. Students are often discouraged from taking risks, making mistakes, or failing, which are inevitable and necessary parts of the creative process.
Figure 2: Rawpixel. (2024). Teaching. [Online image] [Accessed on the 24th of April, 2024] https://www.rawpixel.com/image/3373064/free-photo-image-teaching-education-africa-black-teacher
In today’s society, the pressure on children to pursue traditional careers like becoming a doctor, lawyer, or engineer often starts at home. Parents may inadvertently stifle their children’s creativity by prioritizing practicality over passion. Instead of encouraging them to chase their dreams, they might dismiss unconventional career aspirations with statements like, “Why do you want to become a musician when you can be a lawyer?” This mentality can have detrimental effects on children’s development, hindering their ability to explore their true interests and potential. By pushing them toward predetermined paths, parents risk limiting their children’s opportunities for self-discovery and innovation.
Children need the freedom to explore various interests, whether it’s music, art, or entrepreneurship, without the fear of judgment or disapproval. Embracing creativity means acknowledging that success can come in many forms, not just through traditional professions.
Figure 3: N-IUSSP. (2020) Parent teaching child. [Online image] [Accessed on the 24th of April,2024] The child health benefits of parents’ education in diverse African families — N-IUSSP
Parents must create an environment that fosters curiosity, imagination, and independent thinking. Encouraging children to pursue their passions, no matter how unconventional they may seem, empowers them to unlock their full creative potential and pave their paths to success. Ultimately, by embracing and nurturing their children’s creativity, parents can help them become confident, innovative individuals capable of shaping their futures in ways that go beyond conventional expectations.
Parents can support their children’s creative pursuits by providing access to art supplies, books, music lessons, or other resources that can help them develop their talents. Parents who value and celebrate their children’s creative efforts can help boost their confidence and motivation to continue exploring their creative interests. Parents who engage in creative activities themselves can serve as positive role models for their children and inspire them to pursue their creative interests.
Schools should provide resources and support networks to help students turn their passions into viable career paths. Educational environments where practicality and creativity coexist, enabling students to chart their paths with confidence and enthusiasm should be created. There should be more practical rather than theory in schools and equipment needed for practical should be provided.
Bibliography
Tang, C., Duan, Q., & Long, H. (2022). How do parents influence student creativity? Evidence from a large-scale survey in China. Thinking Skills and Creativity, 46, 101134.
https://www.parentingscience.com/parental-influence-on-creativity.html(Accessed on the 7th April,2024)
https://depositphotos.com/photo/child-learning-creativity-and-mathematics-creative-school-kid-girl-295905010.html(Accessed on the 7th of April,2024)
Beghetto, R. A., & Kaufman, J. C. (Eds.). (2010). Nurturing creativity in the classroom. Cambridge University Press.
Trevallion, D., & Nischang, L. C. (2021). The Creativity Revolution and 21 st Century Learning. International Journal of Innovation, Creativity and Change, 15(8), 1–25.
Co-written by Temitope Ayandele: https://ng.linkedin.com/in/temitope-ayandele-2281341bb
