Abstract

Creativity can present itself through many ways, for example through artistic
expression and problem solving. It is one of five 21st century skills for elementary school
classrooms. These skills make up what students need to succeed in todays globally and
digitally connected world (Partnership for 21st Century Learning, 2015, p.1). There is a need for
students to become creative problem solvers and develop deeper thinking skills. Consequently,
the purpose of this study is two fold. The first purpose is to find how teachers can use creative
teaching practices to enhance student learning. The second purpose is to research ways teachers
can design instruction to promote creativity in the classroom. This study answered two research
questions, this first is: How can teachers implement creative teaching practices to improve
student academic success? The second question is: What ways can teachers design instruction to
promote student creativity? Data to answer these research questions were collected through a
review of scholarly literature and observations in two elementary school classrooms. The
researcher found that the Waldorf philosophy allows for creativity to thrive, promotion of
creativity is link with teacher-designed instruction, and creativity appears to improve student
engagement. Overall, creativity is key because it helps to envision solutions and create engaging
ways for students to learn.