Creative thinking in teacher education colleges : an investigation of the preparation of primary pre-service student teachers in Kuwait

Abstract

This research focuses on investigating the role of creative thinking in student teacher education colleges in Kuwait. The research is based on a (two) single-case study design, with data being collected via multiple methods from five primary departments of Kuwait’s main colleges of education. The study used four instruments to collect the data; semi-structured interviews, focus groups, document analysis, and observation. Inductive and creative synthesis was used as a data analysis approach. An analysis of the study data showed that creative thinking in the preparation and training programmes of pre-service teachers was considered to be a secondary concern in both colleges. The research findings indicate that several factors do not support the development of creative thinking in primary teacher education colleges; including teaching strategies used, classroom environment, social and cultural attitudes of the community (especially towards women’s motivation in choosing the speciality), admission policies, use of technological materials, and the type of communication and cooperation between all educational institutions. This study makes specific recommendations, primarily focused on directing the development of creative thinking to include collaborative efforts by all those involved in every element of teaching and training programmes, and the education system in general. The researcher proposes a theoretical framework designed to serve as a guideline for the development of creative thinking at primary teacher education colleges in Kuwait.