Teaching of Creative Arts in Basic Schools in the Gomoa West District

ABSTRACT 

The purpose of this study was to address the poor teaching strategies teachers employ in the teaching of Creative Arts in the basic schools which do not promote effective teaching and learning. The study identified the methods employed by teachers in the teaching of creative arts in the basic schools in the Gomoa West District and  also suggested the various strategies to be employed in order to improve the teaching of the subject in the basic schools. The sample for the study consisted of 90 teachers, 30 head teachers, 20 parents and 20 pupils. Questionnaire in the form of Yes and No was used to collect data. The methodological inquiry was qualitative and quantitative research approach using descriptive cross-sectional design was used which included the following statistical analyses: percentages were employed to answer the research questions of the study. Findings indicated that both teachers and head teachers who participated in the study agreed that of doodle/doodling and demonstrations were the best strategies to be used to improve the teaching of creative art in the basic schools. In addition, it was found out that as pupils engage in the artistic process, they learn to observe, organize, and interpret their experiences. Based on these findings, it was recommended that, parents should honour their social responsibilities by providing basic tools and materials such as colour pencils, etc. for their wards towards unearthing their hidden creative talents in the Creative Arts lessons. Likewise, the schools need to stock their stores with basic tools and materials which teachers can easily use during lessons. Moreover, teachers must fully involve pupils to help develop their creative spirit by directing to them what they should do.