Introduction
Art teachers are educators and practitioners of the arts, who are tasked with the responsibility of teaching art-related subjects, such as painting, sculpture, and sketching, to students of all ages. They are also responsible for mentoring students and creating lesson plans to educate them on the art form. As such, art teachers must understand their roles and responsibilities and be capable of fulfilling them.
For example, there are certain practices and behaviors that art teachers should avoid and not partake in as this could have a negative effect on their students’ learning experience. This article will discuss the practices to avoid and the implications of not avoiding them.
Do Not Suppress Students’ Creative Ideas
Suppressing students’ creative ideas can have damaging effects on their self-confidence and well-being. Art teachers should never discourage students from expressing their own unique interpretations of the topic.
This is the essence of creativity, and art teachers should not narrow students’ thinking by forcing them to follow specific instructions. Rather, they should encourage them to think outside the box and express their ideas in a safe environment. Additionally, they should explore the different options and solutions that come up and provide guidance when necessary.
In this way, art teachers will help cultivate and nurture their students’ creativity.
Do Not Create a Judgmental Environment
Creating a judgmental environment can lead to feelings of intimidation and exclusion. An art classroom should be a safe and nurturing environment in which students feel free to express themselves without fear of being judged or criticized.
Art teachers should keep their comments constructive, focus on positive feedback more than anything else, and foster an environment of respect and appreciation. Additionally, art teachers should be mindful of not using language which might lead to hurt feelings. They should focus on giving constructive ways for improvement in order to help students enhance their potential.
Do Not Rely Exclusively on Traditional Techniques
Although traditional techniques are an important part of learning the fundamentals of art, art teachers should be open to introducing their students to modern methods as well. These emerging art forms address current themes and issues, enabling art teachers to explore these concepts with their students. Introducing modern art forms can also help art teachers to engage their students more deeply and inspire them to think about their own relationships to the concepts being discussed.
Art teachers should also strive to stay up to date with the current trends in the arts so that they can introduce students to the latest developments in the field.
Do Not Discourage Risk Taking
Taking risks and pushing past boundaries is essential to learning and creativity. Art teachers should not discourage risk taking as this would be detrimental to the learning process as well as the students’ overall development. Instead, art teachers should provide students with the opportunity to explore their options and encourage them to push their boundaries.
Risk taking may be uncomfortable, but this discomfort is necessary in order to grow and flourish as an artist.
Do Not Make Assumptions About Students’ Interests
Art teachers should not make assumptions about their students’ interests and should respect their right to explore various areas of art. Art teachers should be open to the fact that their students may have different interests, and they should be flexible in teaching different topics.
This will also help to create an inclusive environment, where students feel comfortable expressing their own interests. Additionally, art teachers should ask their students for feedback and use that information to tailor their lessons to fit their students’ interests.
Do Not Focus Solely on Techniques
Focusing solely on techniques prevents students from exploring their own interests, encourages them to rely on rote memorization rather than genuine understanding, and does not allow for the development of critical thinking skills. A well-rounded education should include teaching the fundamental techniques, providing students with the opportunity to explore their own interests, and encouraging critical thinking and problem solving.
Art teachers should also strive to provide additional resources, such as relevant books, articles, and experts, to supplement their lessons.
Do Not Ignore Cultural Backgrounds
Culture, history, and heritage should be woven into the art curriculum and art teachers should take their students’ backgrounds into account when evaluating their artwork. Art teachers should strive to create an environment of mutual understanding and respect, and be aware of their students’ cultural backgrounds.
They should also strive to provide students with an appreciation for different cultures, and provide students with exposure to the traditional and contemporary art from their cultural backgrounds.
Do Not Minimize the Student’s Voice
The student’s voice is an important part of any learning environment, and art teachers should strive to provide students with chances to express their opinions. Art teachers should listen to what their students have to say and take their ideas into consideration. Teachers should also allow for debate and discussion in their classrooms, as this encourages critical thinking and the exchange of creative ideas.
Do Not Neglect the Student’s Safety
Art classroom safety is a priority, and art teachers should be aware of any safety hazards in their classrooms. Art teachers should make sure that all materials used in class are properly labeled, and ensure that students know the safety protocols for using them. Art teachers should also provide students with proper safety equipment and ensure that it is used correctly.
Do Not Overburden the Schedule
Art teachers should not over-schedule their classes, as this can lead to students feeling overwhelmed and burnt out. Art classes should be realistic and achievable for the students’ learning level and teachers should give their students time to process their ideas and practice what they have learned. Additionally, teachers should strive to keep their lessons dynamic and interesting, and provide students with different methods to engage with the topics discussed.
Do Not Underestimate the Creative Potential of Their Students
Underestimating their students’ creative potential can lead to students feeling unmotivated and ineffective. Art teachers should strive to empower their students, give them tasks at their appropriate levels, and challenge them to solve problems and expand their knowledge of the subject.
Additionally, art teachers should provide students with opportunities to present their work in order to foster creative expression and collaboration.
Conclusion
In summary, art teachers play a vital role in the development of their students’ knowledge and skills, and it is essential for them to understand their roles and responsibilities. Art teachers should strive to create an inviting environment in which students feel safe to express themselves and take risks.
Additionally, art teachers should not underestimate their students’ potential and should challenge them to reach their fullest potential. Art teachers should also respect their students’ cultural backgrounds and interests, and provide students with the opportunity to explore their own interests and create their own interpretive works of art.