Determination of Social Studies Teachers' Views and Practices on Creative Writing Activities

The aim of this study is to determine the opinions and practices of social studies teachers regarding creative writing activities. The study population, which was surveyed, consisted of social studies teachers working in public schools in the central districts of Denizli. Sampling was not conducted within the scope of the research, and an attempt was made to reach the entire population. In this context, 117 social studies teachers from Merkezefendi and Pamukkale districts of Denizli Province participated in the study. A questionnaire, developed by researchers and consisting of both closed-ended and open-ended questions, was used as a data collection tool. Frequency and percentage techniques were employed to analyze quantitative data, while the content analysis method was utilized to analyze qualitative data. The results of the study reveal that social studies teachers often lack knowledge and training in creative writing, yet they frequently incorporate such activities into their lessons without being aware of it. Among the purposes of teachers to use these activities, attracting students' attention to the lesson, ensuring permanent learning of the subject, and developing students' imagination come to the forefront. Teachers mentioned the contribution of creative writing activities in five dimensions: learning process, development of thinking skills, development of language skills, getting to know students, and learning the subject/discipline content. However, teachers are hesitant to use these activities, especially due to time constraints and students' lack of interest in writing activities. More than half of the teachers would like to receive training in creative writing. The results obtained in the study can benefit from teachers' perspectives and experiences in developing creative writing activities for social studies teaching. In this context, it is understood that studies should be focused on the appropriate integration of creative writing methods with the content of the field.