Introducing primary school students to creative literary techniques can enhance their resilience to real-life problems

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KUWAIT CITY, Oct 21: A recent study has revealed that introducing primary school students to creative literary techniques can significantly enhance their resilience in the face of real-life problems and difficulties.

As per a scientific journal, researchers undertook the task of instructing primary school students in the application of literary techniques, including altering perspectives, engaging in counterfactual thinking (examining “what if” scenarios), and causal thinking (investigating “why” aspects), aimed at nurturing creativity in their approach to adversity.

Angus Fletcher, the study’s principal author and an English professor at Ohio State University, observed, “Technology played a pivotal role in inspiring children to devise inventive and practical solutions to challenges.”

He further explained, “Cultivating children’s creativity equips them with the ability to formulate alternative strategies when faced with unfavorable situations.” The report stated that the researchers conducted two distinct studies, both involving students enrolled in a summer camp program.

In the first case, the students were encouraged to imagine a friend who possessed unique problem-solving abilities, labeling this friend as their “creative companion.” This particular technique, referred to as a perspective shift, encourages children to view problems from someone else’s viewpoint.

Fletcher noted, “The findings underscore how creativity training can bolster children’s belief in their own self-efficacy, instilling in them a sense of control and authority over their own lives.”

In the second study, a narrative creativity curriculum was tested on a group of 28 students over a span of five days, each day comprising 10 hours of training in creativity, self-efficacy, and adaptability. The results revealed that each student who completed the five-day curriculum was capable of devising alternative solutions to both age-related and personality-based challenges.

Fletcher elucidated that narrative creativity training educates children about the existence of non-obvious solutions to real-life dilemmas. He concluded, “Children can acquire creativity through artistic disciplines, such as literature and theater, provided it is approached correctly.” Instead of merely analyzing works of art, teachers can guide students to immerse themselves in the roles of various characters, explore fresh perspectives, and indulge in why-and-what-if thinking. He added, “The proficiency in utilizing this kind of thinking may not be gauged through standardized assessments, but it remains exceptionally valuable in assisting children in cultivating and applying their creativity to tackle real-world problems.”

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