Artistic Self-Assessment and Divergent Thinking in Ecuadorian Secondary Students

This study investigated the influence of cultural and artistic education on the development of critical and creative thinking among first-year high school students at Unidad Educativa Fiscal "Ocho de Enero" in Jipijapa. A significant problem was identified regarding the limited integration of artistic activities into the educational curriculum, which considerably restricted opportunities to foster divergent thinking skills in young people. To address this issue, a methodological approach was designed that included creative workshops in various artistic disciplines, such as music, dance, theater, and visual arts. These workshops aimed not only to encourage active student participation but also to create an environment that valued and stimulated creativity among students from diverse backgrounds. The main results indicated that the proposal significantly enhanced students' creativity and promoted teamwork, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking, thereby contributing to their comprehensive development as participatory and committed citizens. Continuous evaluation of the workshops and feedback from participants provided valuable insights for adjusting and optimizing activities based on students’ needs and preferences. In conclusion, the effectiveness of the proposal in developing creative competencies among students was clearly demonstrated, highlighting the importance of integrating artistic education into current educational contexts. This integration enhances the personal and academic growth of young people, fostering a holistic education that benefits both students and the broader community. Ultimately, it creates a vibrant educational environment where creativity can flourish and positively impact future generations.