The Pedagogy of Creative Practitioners in Schools

Author: Maurice Galton

Institution: University of Cambridge

Full reference: Galton, M. (2006) The Pedagogy of Creative Practitioners in Schools Final Report. London: Arts Council England, Creative Partnerships

Summary of key findings

This project explored the pedagogy used by successful external creative partners in bringing about transformations in pupils’ attitudes to and motivation for learning, particularly those disaffected pupils of an anti-school disposition. The impact of such transformations transferring to other curriculum areas, were looked at, particularly mathematics and science, as areas where pupils’ attitudes have declined in recent years. The final aim of the research was to examine the extent to which pedagogy used by successful external partners can be transferred to others (both fellow artists and teachers). The research offers useful pointers for professional development and collaborative ventures between teachers and creative practitioners.

Research Questions & Methodology

Information was collected through interviews with creative practitioners and pupils and notes taken during visits to the schools of the activities undertaken, conversations taking place and instructions provided during the session.

The aims of the study were:

• To explore the pedagogy used by successful external creative partners inbringing about transformations in pupils’ attitudes to (and motivation for)learning, particularly those disaffected pupils of an anti-school disposition
• To determine in what ways such transformations impact on pupils’ creativity and transfer to other curriculum areas, particularly mathematics and science where pupils’ attitudes have declined significantly in recent years.
• To examine the extent to which pedagogy used by successful external partners can be transferred to others (both fellow artists and teachers)

Read the report.