An Eight Week Art And Craft Program Using Local And Inexpensive Materials In The Environment

Abstract

This study implemented an eight-week art and craft program at St. Matthew’s Anglican School in Pomona, Stann Creek District, to encourage creativity among Standard III students using local and inexpensive materials from the environment. Nineteen students participated in weekly art sessions designed to foster imagination, originality, effort, and appreciation for art through practical activities such as string painting, potato printing, and decorative crafts. The research sought to demonstrate that effective art education does not require costly materials but can utilize readily available resources like coconut shells, husks, seeds, and recycled items. Data were collected through pre-tests and post-tests, evaluating creativity, involvement, and neatness. Results showed significant improvement in students’ performance, with the overall mean score increasing from 65.5 to 71.9, indicating greater engagement and artistic development. The study concludes that integrating art and craft activities using environmental materials enhances self-expression, problem-solving skills, and motivation, especially among slow learners. It recommends that schools place greater emphasis on art education and provide teacher training and resources to promote creativity in the classroom.