I believe that the key to being an effective art educator is providing an environment that is supportive of student learning. As an educator I am committed to providing an inclusive education, promoting active learning, and maintaining a positive learning environment.
The foundation of a successful art education classroom is established by promoting a positive learning environment. A positive learning environment encourages students to present their opinions while respecting the opinions of others. It is important that students feel they are supported in their education whether it is through a class discussion or their artistic expression. As an educator I understand the importance of positive reinforcement along with constructive criticism. A successful art teacher will promote continuous student progress while acknowledging achievements along the way. A direct result of a positive learning environment is the increase in a student's desire to actively learn.
An active learning environment allows students to be directly involved in their own learning process. It is important that the class curriculum is written specifically for the students within the class that is being taught. Developing a curriculum that is tailored to the class allows students to personally connect with the subject matter, which increases their motivation to learn. One example of active learning is allowing students to set the parameters for their projects. Giving students this responsibility engages them in the process and maximizes their learning. Active learning addresses different student learning styles and lays the foundation for an inclusive education.
An art classroom that incorporates inclusive education will enhance the learning for all types of students. Inclusive education benefits those both with and without learning disabilities. Through the use of inclusive education students will learn how to work collaboratively with their peers. When students are a part of a class that reflects the similarities and differences of people in the real world, they learn to appreciate diversity. Respect and understanding for others develops when students of differing abilities learn together. Inclusive education is only possible if the learning environment is both positive and active.
My goal as an art educator is to provide an encouraging, engaging, and safe environment for all students. Art not only allows students to think and express their ideas creatively, but it also teaches them skills that can be carried over into other subjects and applied to the real world. As an art education student at the University of Kansas my classes and experiences have exemplified what it means to be an effective art teacher. I believe a successful art classroom will ultimately inspire students to respect each other and all other humans.
Philosophy
