DEVELOPING 21ST-CENTURY SKILLS IN ESL LEARNERS THROUGH CREATIVE PEDAGOGY: A THEORETICAL OVERVIEW
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This article explores the role of creative pedagogy in developing 21st-century skills—communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity (4Cs) – among ESL learners. Based on constructivist learning theory and global teaching models, it shows that student-centered and open-ended methods increase engagement, autonomy, and confidence. Strategies such as project-based learning, storytelling, multimodal tasks, and drama are reviewed for their effectiveness in building creativity and language proficiency. These methods also strengthen problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and real-life communication skills. The article further discusses challenges in transitional systems like Uzbekistan, including rigid curricula, limited teacher preparation, and resource shortages, alongside opportunities created by reforms and digital tools. Overall, the study highlights creativity as a key element of modern ESL education.
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