ABSTRACT

Creativity and science are perceived by many as separate entities. Could early science integrated as STEAM be used as a means for creativity development in the preschool context? This study explores an implementation of the creative play approach through integration of early science and creativity in the Malaysian preschool context, as well as its effects and impact towards young children through qualitative and quantitative means. Children’s levels of creativity following the implementation were measured using Torrance’s Thinking Creatively in Action and Movement (TCAM) instrument. Findings of ANCOVA revealed significant difference between the overall creativity scores of preschoolers in experimental and control groups, F(1,53) = 5.23, p = 0.03, η2 = 0.09. Qualitative data also indicated that the activities were effective in promoting creative traits and processes among preschoolers. A creative play SEA model implemented in this study is postulated as a point of reference to further promote the implementation of creative play in enhancing creativity among preschoolers. Developing creativity purposefully through creative play should be vigorously advocated in practice as well as future research studies to anchor the field of early childhood education in line with global needs in preparation for future challenges.

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