Creative thinking and problem solving are universally important skills that can be developed especially well in the art classroom. As an art teacher I work to give students confidence in their own creativity, as well as their ability to learn new skills and to understand and communicate effectively with visual language.
Art class is a learning environment with opportunities for working with a variety of media - both digital and traditional. Students can experiment with technology in art class in ways that are more flexible than other school settings. The newer media can be combined and balanced with timeless skills such as observational drawing and craft with a variety of tools and materials.
The integration of art education with other subjects and curricula can create fresh opportunities for students to develop creativity and open-minded problem solving skills in preparation for the complex multimedia cultures and careers of today.
Art curriculum can provide great opportunities for collaborative projects. Often a part of any creative process, working collaboratively in school is a valuable preparation for higher education and the professional world.
Within the creative process there are opportunities to foster verbal, written, and visual communication skills, from the developmental stages to the final critique and reflection. With journal and sketchbook assignments in and out of class, students can explore ideas, work out solutions, research, and gather visual resources. With individual and group discussions and critiques, students become more confident in communicating their intentions and processes, as well as the success and frustration they experienced.
My background as an artist and professional printmaker has influenced how I approach teaching and facilitating an art classroom. The creative process, problem solving, collaboration, and communication of ideas are universally important skills for students to cultivate in preparation for their futures.