Using Theory-Based Research in Supporting Creative Learning Environment for Young Children

Using Theory-Based Research in Supporting Creative Learning Environment for Young Children

Amanda J. Muhammad, Gloysis Mayers, Deborah G. Wooldridge
Copyright: © 2019 |Pages: 17
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-5225-7507-8.ch014
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Abstract

A supportive creative environment for young children is viewed as an essential element toward facilitating their creative thinking. Creativity requires imagination, insight, problem solving, divergent thinking, the ability to express emotions and to be able to make choices, thus we created a supportive learning environment to nurture creativity in three to four year olds. In this chapter creativity theory is discussed and how to apply to the early childhood educational setting. The Reggio Approach and creativity-provoking methods are discussed. Application of the theory relates to how children are immersed into activities encourages problem-solving, exploration, creativity and the learning supported by play based experiences for children. Examples are given as to how one child development center has provided curriculum, arranged the indoor and outdoor spaces, and integrated the artist in residence concept into the setting.
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Brief Overview Of Creativity Theory

Daily lives are ever evolving and becoming more complex. The complexity is evident not only in our cultural evolution but also in our biological evolution. To better function in an environment where complex change is the norm requires people to use and apply creative solutions to everyday problems. Creativity is necessary for understanding, problem solving, and developing flexibility in every life (Runco, 2004). Our contemporary society is the result of creative thinking not only in the artistic domain but also in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (Weinstein, 2014). Children are of no exception to this need for the ability to respond creatively (Runco, 2004; Russ, 2004). In fact, creativity in youth is even more essential than ever before because the world that they will encounter as adults will present more variations in technological advancements, cultural diversions, social opportunities, and environmental changes.

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