A Comparison of Barbadian and Grenadian Teachers' Beliefs About Creativity

• In Event: Roundtable Session 32
  In Roundtable Session: Exploring Attitudes, Beliefs, and Perceptions That Influence School Climate

Abstract

This study compares 110 Barbadian and 100 Grenadian secondary school teachers’ conceptions of creativity. Data from the teacher surveys were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Overall, teachers felt moderately positively about their levels of creativity. However, they collectively agreed that a lack of resources, poor student attitudes and an overemphasis on testing are the main constraints to fostering creativity in the classroom. Further, the results reinforced the traditional belief that Arts subjects are more likely to be creativity fostering than Sciences, with female teachers supporting this view more than males. This study highlights a need for rethinking how creativity is fostered in the classroom and challenges teachers to find innovative means of using the limited resources at their disposal.

Authors

• Mary Grace-Anne Jackman, University of the West Indies - Barbados

• James E. J Young, The University of the West Indies - Cave Hill