“As rote memorization is the norm in Togolese education, students don’t always get the chance to practice their creative thinking. This seven-part course at the American Corner in Lomé encouraged students to do just that. They learned how to think more creatively, critically, and methodically, and finished the course having written a full short story.” – ELF Chloe Hammett
English Language Fellow Chloe Hammett taught a creative writing course for students at the American Corner. At the end of 7 weeks, students received certificates for their excellent participation. While the course focused on creative writing, this course was actually aimed at encouraging students to develop their thinking in three ways: creatively (coming up with new ideas), critically (analyzing why a character would act the way s/he does, for example), and organizationally (developing logical thought processes). It is expected that students will turn these mental skills to other activities in their lives.