Teaching Philosophy
The role of the art teacher consists of guiding and facilitating mastery of artistic skill as well as teaching students how to think and work like true artists. I endeavor to build working relationships with students where they feel their concerns are heard, and opinions are valued.
My teaching style utilizes constructivist methods, where I work as a guide and facilitator. In my opinion, the best teachers ask more questions than they answer; the arts are all about questioning the world around us, and exploring big ideas that become layered and multi-faceted.
I want my students to build a strong relationship to art, whether it be art making, or simply art gazing. Through the art making process, I inspire students to hone technique while refining their concept development. My students become...
"I teach art as a vehicle for creativity that enables students to make deep connections and ponder relationships within the tangible and intangible world. Being able to question and draw conclusions allow students to formulate their own philosophies and make judgments based on sound information and meaningful thought."
In my classroom, students take on many roles in their education, including working on a team to maintain and take care of space and supplies, come to class ready to use their imaginations, try something new, and participate in group discussion or critique. Students are responsible for putting forth one hundred percent effort in my class while making art. I emphasize studio habits such as stretch and explore and engage and persist in order to teach students to take control of their own learning by critically thinking about their work, and pushing themselves further with each. In my classroom, students are responsible for their own work, as well as giving qualitative feedback to others during the process. Finally, the class as a whole is expected to work together to create a culture of integrity and respect for all.