Artistic Creativity and Cognitive Flexibility in Multilingual Individuals
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18623/rvd.v23.4624Keywords:
Multilingualism, Creativity, Artistic Expression, Code-switching, Quality EducationAbstract
This mixed-methods study compares the artistic creativity of bilingual (n=50) and multilingual (n=50) university students. Using the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking (TTCT), creative writing, and artistic expression tasks, it investigates how multiple languages influence creative output. Grounded in self-translation and creative cognition theories, the results demonstrate a clear multilingual advantage. Multilingual students significantly outperformed bilingual peers on TTCT measures of originality and cognitive flexibility. Qualitative analysis of artworks and narratives revealed that multilinguals employed code-switching, symbolic integration of cultural motifs, and layered narratives more frequently, leading to richer cultural expressiveness and complexity. These findings suggest that the processes of navigating multiple linguistic and cultural identities enhance creative cognition. The study supports promoting quality education through multilingual curricula and pedagogical approaches that leverage code-switching to foster artistic innovation. Implications for educational policy highlight language diversity as a key resource for nurturing creative potential.
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