Teaching Philosophy
“Imagination is more important than knowledge.”
- Albert Einstein -
- Albert Einstein -
Art education is something that goes far beyond the world of art. It delves into the moral and spiritual fiber that makes up each individual. It is my belief that the benefits of art education far exceed the end result of any single project, and that every student that walks into the art classroom has something positive to gain. Pride, self-confidence, patience, the ability to problem solve and gain perspective, are a few of the lasting benefits of a strong art foundation. Thus, my philosophy is simple. I do not expect, nor is it my goal, to transform students into master artists (i.e. a young Picasso or Michelangelo). It is my goal, however, to inspire students to create, to think critically, to analyze, to appreciate, to communicate, to grow, and to achieve more than they thought they could.
In order to achieve these goals, I develop lessons that are “student centered” and challenging. I share with students the criteria with which they will be assessed before they begin their projects. By doing this it encourages students to be self-reflective while at the same time promoting high expectations.
To foster ease of approach, I break down challenging projects into manageable steps with clear, and purposeful objectives and I provide individualized guidance in order to encourage students’ best efforts. In addition to making the content of my classes manageable, I implement the use of technology as well as a variety of methods to introduce and reinforce subject matter. In sum, my approach utilizes peer-to-peer learning, teacher orchestrated step-by-step instruction, as well as individual work and self-reflection.
I love Einstein’s quote (above) because it shows an appreciation for resourcefulness. It takes an imagination to apply known techniques, ideas, and skills in a fresh way. I strive to encourage personal growth as well as creative thinking. If I can teach students to understand that art is a medium through which almost any emotion can be expressed or any idea communicated, and also inspire students to create art, I will have accomplished my goal.
In order to achieve these goals, I develop lessons that are “student centered” and challenging. I share with students the criteria with which they will be assessed before they begin their projects. By doing this it encourages students to be self-reflective while at the same time promoting high expectations.
To foster ease of approach, I break down challenging projects into manageable steps with clear, and purposeful objectives and I provide individualized guidance in order to encourage students’ best efforts. In addition to making the content of my classes manageable, I implement the use of technology as well as a variety of methods to introduce and reinforce subject matter. In sum, my approach utilizes peer-to-peer learning, teacher orchestrated step-by-step instruction, as well as individual work and self-reflection.
I love Einstein’s quote (above) because it shows an appreciation for resourcefulness. It takes an imagination to apply known techniques, ideas, and skills in a fresh way. I strive to encourage personal growth as well as creative thinking. If I can teach students to understand that art is a medium through which almost any emotion can be expressed or any idea communicated, and also inspire students to create art, I will have accomplished my goal.