I've really been working hard to figure out what works best for art student learning. There are basically two camps. Project based or process based teaching. Meeting the standards of learning, I believe, created a shift to project based teaching. This can result in some very beautiful, well planned projects... but, when I looked at what we as art teachers promote as an important component to education (creativity, exploration and problem solving to name a few), it just wasn't there. Instruction following? Check. Material use? Check. Learning art terms? Check. However, is that a way to create artists? I wasn't convinced. Choice-based learning seemed to fit the bill, this gives students access to materials to explore and create at will. It sounded fantastic and I had to try it! Except.... some students not only need, but enjoy the organization of guided projects and checking off the list of steps (so to speak), which can give a feeling of accomplishment.
I've landed on this format. We start class with a skill building warm up. This is a way to practice particular techniques, use materials, open art centers, and build finished artworks. Then students have the opportunity to move to self-guided art making. As the art centers become "open", students can use more and more materials. They also have sketchbooks, media books, or can look at a book from the art library as idea starters. I've found that this meets the needs of various types of learners, as well as offers a well rounded way to explore art.
Thanks to all who have responded about Artsonia. Be sure to check it out if you haven't already.
Hello, my name is Patti Rowland and I am the art teacher for grades K - 8 at Blacksburg New School. I feel very fortunate to be able to have each class for an hour two times a week. Teaching at Blacksburg New School gives me the opportunity to explore and create a curriculum that incorporates choice-based learning, which serves the varying processing styles of our young artists.