An assessment of the role of informal education in fostering creativity among undergraduates in Bida Local Government Area, Niger State
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Background of the study
Creativity is increasingly recognized as a critical competency in today’s rapidly changing global environment. For undergraduates in Bida, traditional education methods that emphasize rote learning and standardized testing often do not foster creative thinking. Informal education, however, offers alternative approaches—such as creative workshops, art exhibitions, and interdisciplinary projects—that stimulate innovation and originality (Oluwole, 2023). These community-based programs create an environment where students can experiment, take risks, and develop unique problem-solving skills. By engaging in hands-on activities and collaborative projects, learners are encouraged to think outside the box, which is essential for academic and professional success (Ibrahim, 2024).
In Bida Local Government Area, informal education initiatives have been implemented by local organizations, community centers, and cultural groups with the aim of nurturing creativity among undergraduates. These programs often incorporate local art, music, and storytelling traditions, thereby bridging modern educational practices with indigenous cultural expressions (Chinedu, 2023). The participatory and flexible nature of these initiatives has allowed students to explore their creative potential in a supportive environment. Moreover, the absence of rigid evaluation criteria in informal settings fosters an atmosphere of experimentation and self-expression, which is crucial for cultivating innovation (Nwosu, 2024).
Despite the promising role of informal education, challenges persist. The lack of consistent funding, limited access to resources, and varying levels of facilitator expertise can impede the effectiveness of creativity-enhancing programs. Furthermore, the traditional academic culture, which prioritizes conventional metrics of success, may undervalue creative achievements, thereby discouraging some students from fully engaging in these activities (Adebayo, 2023). This study will investigate the contributions of informal education to fostering creativity among undergraduates in Bida. It will explore the program structures, participant experiences, and contextual factors that influence creative development, ultimately providing recommendations for enhancing these initiatives and better integrating them into the broader educational landscape (Femi, 2024).
Statement of the problem
Undergraduates in Bida face challenges in developing creativity due to the predominant focus on standardized learning and assessment within formal education. While informal education programs have been introduced to address this gap, their effectiveness in truly fostering creativity remains underexplored. Many students report limited opportunities to engage in creative activities that extend beyond traditional academic disciplines. Issues such as inadequate funding, inconsistent program quality, and a lack of trained facilitators further exacerbate the problem (Olu, 2023). Additionally, the prevailing academic culture often undervalues creative pursuits, leading to insufficient institutional support for these programs.
As a result, despite the potential of informal education to enhance creative thinking, there is an observable gap between program objectives and actual student outcomes. This study seeks to examine the factors that hinder the full realization of creative potential among undergraduates in Bida, exploring how informal educational initiatives can be optimized to bridge this gap. By evaluating existing programs and identifying key obstacles, the research aims to propose strategies that will better integrate creative activities within the broader educational framework (Eze, 2024). This investigation is critical for developing a more holistic educational approach that not only emphasizes academic rigor but also nurtures the innovative capacities of students, which are essential for addressing contemporary challenges.
Objectives of the study:
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To assess the impact of informal education on fostering creativity among undergraduates.
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To identify the challenges faced by informal education programs in promoting creativity.
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To recommend strategies for enhancing creative initiatives and integrating them with formal education.
Research questions:
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How does informal education contribute to the development of creativity among undergraduates in Bida?
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What challenges do creativity-enhancing informal programs encounter?
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How can informal and formal educational strategies be combined to foster greater creativity?
Research Hypotheses:
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Informal education significantly enhances creativity among undergraduates.
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Insufficient resources and training negatively affect the outcomes of creative programs.
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Integrated creative initiatives between informal and formal education lead to improved innovative capacities.
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it evaluates the role of informal education in fostering creativity among undergraduates in Bida. The findings will provide valuable insights for educators, cultural leaders, and policymakers on effective strategies for nurturing innovation. By identifying obstacles and best practices, the research contributes to the development of an educational framework that values creative expression alongside academic achievement. Ultimately, the study supports efforts to create an environment where creativity is cultivated, leading to enhanced problem-solving skills and better preparedness for future challenges.
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is confined to examining the role of informal education in fostering creativity among undergraduates in Bida Local Government Area, Niger State. It focuses solely on community-based creative programs and excludes formal academic initiatives. Limitations include variability in program quality and self-reported data biases.
Definitions of terms:
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Creativity: The ability to generate original ideas and solutions that are both novel and effective.
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Informal Education: Educational experiences outside the formal curriculum that emphasize experiential and participatory learning.
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Innovation: The practical application of creative ideas to produce new or improved products, services, or processes.
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