Imagination as a transformative tool in primary school education

Abstract. This paper argues for the use of imagination in the teaching of all primary school subjects, as a way to engage students’ attention and interest in learning. It reviews the perspectives of two educationists, Kieren Egan, currently professor of education at Simon Fraser University, Burnaby B.C., Canada, and Dr. Rudolf Steiner (1861 – 1925), founder of the Waldorf Schools, now spread over many countries of the world. Both perspectives show how imaginative teaching engages the ‘whole child ’ in the process of learning. They argue that imagination is a heightened form of cognition that enhances the experience of truth, and not a ‘frill ’ that has no value. Both perspectives claim that children between the ages of about 5 to 14 years learn best through the imagination, as this is their natural and strongest mode of engaging with knowledge. The paper draws implications for educational practice and provides some examples of imaginative lesson material. Finally, conclusions are drawn to outline the changes needed in primary education as it is generally practised today