DEVELOPING CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS AT TERTIARY LEVEL: AN ANALYSIS OF ISSUES FACED BY ESL STUDENTS AND REMEDIES

Abstract

This study explores the multifaceted challenges faced by tertiary-level ESL students in developing creative writing skills, with a particular focus on learners enrolled in three universities in Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan: KFUEIT, IUB-RYK, and AIOU-RYK. Through a quantitative methodology, data were collected via a structured questionnaire from 60 students across departments of English, Education, and Business. The primary aim was to investigate core writing obstacles and assess the role of technology-based tools in addressing these gaps. Findings revealed that students struggle significantly with grammatical accuracy, sentence structuring, and logical idea organisation. Emotional barriers such as writing anxiety, lack of motivation, and limited confidence were also prevalent, particularly when engaging in long-form assignments. These struggles frequently led to reduced academic performance and a diminished sense of achievement. Notably, many students reported receiving insufficient feedback on their work, highlighting a disconnect between learner needs and instructional practices. Despite these challenges, students expressed strong intrinsic motivation to improve their writing abilities. Tools like grammar checkers and digital writing aids were widely used and perceived as helpful. However, more advanced tools such as citation software and structured writing templates were underutilised due to lack of awareness or training. This points to a clear gap in digital literacy, not willingness. The study recommends a multipronged intervention approach: embedding technology use into curricula, offering department-specific writing modules, facilitating scaffolded writing tasks with timely feedback, and reducing affective stress through peer support and flexible assessment strategies. Furthermore, extracurricular activities such as writing clubs and student publications can enhance writing culture beyond coursework.