The Role of Universities in Fostering Creativity from the Perspectives of Students in the UAE and Jordan

This study investigates how universities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Jordan foster creativity among students by analyzing their perspectives based on demographic variables such as gender, country, academic specialization, academic year, and educational level. An online questionnaire was used to gather data on students’ perceptions. The sample size consisted of 834 students from various universities. Results indicate significant differences based on demographic factors, with male students and those from the UAE rating their universities higher in fostering creativity. Moreover, students in the first and second academic years also rated their universities higher in fostering creativity when compared with students in the third or fourth year. The study highlights the need for curriculum reforms, faculty development, and institutional support to enhance creative thinking. It concludes that demographic characteristics significantly impact students’ views on their universities’ roles in promoting creativity, suggesting tailored approaches to meet diverse student needs. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and educators aiming to foster a more creative and innovative academic environment.