Abstract

Emotional intelligence (EI) and creativity have emerged to be crucial components of emotional adjustment, personal well-being, life success, and interpersonal relationship in the past decade. This article provides a critical review of the research field of EI and Creativity in the school context and analyzes its present and future value in teacher education in the Nigerian educational system. Firstly, the author examines the debate on educational policies in different countries (UK, USA, Spain and Nigeria) for providing children the best start in life and for development of EI and Creative abilities. Secondly, theoretical models of EI by Mayer and Salovey (1997), and Creativity by Edward de Bono (2001) were discussed in detail. Thirdly, the author summarizes research concerning the relevance of EI and Creativity to indicators for personal and school success. Some recommendations for developing EI and Creativity at school and implication for future educational policies were given.

Key words: Emotional Intelligence (EI), creativity, personal well-being, educational policies and school success.