Creative Writing at the University: Students' Perceptions and Expectations

Abstract

The present study is aimed at investigating students' perceptions of themselves in relation to creativity as well as their expectations from the course in creative writing in their university studies of English so that to support the process. The findings revealed that although half of study participants considered themselves to be creative, only a few of them were involved in creative writing. The study also resulted in the identification of students' expectations, including the expectations to better understand the nature of creativity and creative writing, gain specific knowledge about creative writers and the process of creative writing, practice creative writing, foster English as the language of their studies as well as learn more about themselves. The findings suggest that to foster creativity in the new course in English, students' perceptions of themselves, the level of their awareness about creativity and creative writing as well as their expectations are important. It is recommended that this study be extended to the investigation of students' experience of learning to become creative writers after they finish the course. This may lead to generalisations on how the creativity-favourable environment can be further enhanced.