The application of problem based pedagogy in promoting creative writing among Luganda language students : a case of Kyambogo University

Abstract

The general objective of the study was to examine the role of problem based pedagogy in promoting creative writing among Luganda language undergraduate students. The study was guided by three specific objectives which included; finding out how creative writing is taught, the awareness of lecturers in using problem-based pedagogy in teaching creative writing and examining the benefits of problem-based pedagogy in promoting creative writing. The study used a case study research design basically using qualitative data and minimal quantitative data. The study population included both lecturers and Luganda language students at Kyambogo University. The Luganda language staff population was seven (7) while that of third year Luganda students in the current academic year 2018/2019 was fifty eight (58) according to the University Registrar’s office. Data were collected using questionnaires, interview guide and documentary review checklist. Quantitative data was presented using percentages and tables. To analyze the qualitative data, the researcher followed Ritchie and Spencer’s five steps of framework analysis. The findings revealed that creative writing is one of the courses taught in Luganda language education at Kyambogo University with lecturers using lecture method as their mode of delivery though hand in hand with other methods such as discussion and task-based strategies. The teaching is done with much emphasis on developing innovation, critical thinking, problem solving skills and effective use of language. However, many of the students (36%) had not participate in any creative writing project. Many Luganda language lecturers were not aware of the meaning of problem-based pedagogy and its appropriate use much as they used real life experiences in teaching creative writing with unconducive teaching learning environment. The findings also revealed that Problem based pedagogy has the potential to stimulate creative abilities of learners through innovation, critical thinking, problem solving and effective language use and motivates them to engage in creative writing. The study recommend that lecturers should also use other methods such as task based, project based and discussion in teaching creative writing to make students active participants in creative writing classes, University authorities should organize creative writing workshops and seminars to train lecturers and tutors on proper use of PBP in teaching creative writing. Lecturers at Kyambogo University should prioritize the use of PBP in teaching creative writing.