Why working creatively is still important in English primary classrooms in 2022: an appreciative empirical inquiry

Abstract

This study focuses on the current situation regarding children working creatively in schools. With two colleagues, I used a form of action research called Appreciative Inquiry, working in collaboration with teachers. Though it took courage for the teachers to plan and implement activities in which children worked creatively, they valued this work for several reasons. It can result in highly memorable and meaningful learning; it offers rich assessment opportunities by allowing children to express their understanding; it guards against underestimating children’s capabilities; and it provides opportunities to fulfil the more holistic purposes of education. Therefore this pedagogical approach still matters.