Leah A.

Hackett

Philosophy of Art Education

A quality art education comprises the art experiences and learning which enable the students to
better understand and appreciate their world. A quality curriculum includes many benefits for all
students and is an imperative part of general education. This specialized learning environment provides
students with diverse learning abilities and styles a positive situation for valuable experiences. The
advantages of art education are far reaching. The curriculum is guided by the individual school
divisions, the states and the National Learning Standards for the Arts; which creates a balanced, wellrounded, and thorough educational development for students.
The production of art is emphasized as a learning tool, allowing students the means to express
their own ideas and connect learning to their own personal experiences and interests. The making of art
also helps students to develop creative thinking, observational skills, analysis of relationships,
communication, and the ability to make decisions. The analysis and criticism of art is an important
component in any art curriculum. This art criticism engages students in responding to art works by
describing, analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating many different types, styles, and cultural works. Art
history serves the education of the student by connecting concepts learned in other academic areas and
provides the discovery of the context of the art for better understandings of the work. The art historical
element exposes students to a broad range of multi-cultural peoples and societies giving the students
better comprehension through art. An integrated curriculum also works with aesthetic issues where
students think about sensory perceptions, feelings from the art work, as well as what constitutes art in
their own culture and many others.
Assessment is very important in art education because it involves the students in their own
learning and growth processes. The students learn through self, peer, and teacher evaluation the
progress they are making, whether it is with the use of rubrics, critiques, or written reflections. They
also become aware of making decisions about their own ideas of art. The assessment process
encourages students to become more independent in their own discoveries and learning.
The art education program is very open and is an excellent occasion to make connections and
utilize many varied resources available to students from the community. Whether it is a local museum
or gallery, a working artist, long distance learning, or guest artist, all are important aspects for the
education of the student. The use of technology is should often be utilized in the art classroom, both as
resource and as a creative tool. Computer and electronic media are all valuable tools for the students. It
is also possible to help students to discover the career choices which include artistic skills.
Students should be given the opportunity to explore as many educational avenues as possible in
their learning. Art Education is essential in the development and growth of a student. It enables that
student to aware and understanding, as well as giving the student skills such as critical and creative
thinking, observational, decision making and communication ability. The art education helps students
with life skills and to become participants in their own world culture.