​          Art is a diverse tool that has a language. When students learn to use this language, they can convey ideas and express themselves in new and innovative ways.   

                 
          My role as a teacher is to guide students to examine issues, question their perceptions, and to solve problems creatively and with meaning. I think that this can be accomplished through critical thinking and project-based assignments. The art classroom is a place where students learn much more than mastering creative processes; art education also plays a significant role in the learning process itself. It is crucial for students to explore ideas and take risks. Students should be encouraged to make mistakes and eagerly try again in a safe and stimulating space.

         

          It is important for students to participate in discussions and work collaboratively on assignments. If students are encouraged to participate in the process rather than to passively listen, they become personally invested and intrinsically motivated to do well.

          I use “authentic assessments” to assess and grade students’ work and to evaluate a student’s knowledge. I strongly feel that projects, performance essays, or portfolio-based assessments illustrate the level of understanding and retention of the art lessons.

          Students should also learn to present their ideas and their projects. Displaying art in a school gallery or show exhibition shows a student’s completed work while giving the student a sense of pride and accomplishment. Exhibitions also raise awareness in peers, other faculty members, and parents about the arts and current issues that are important to students. I feel that it is important to collaborate with other teachers, administration, parents, and PTA to reach common goals. I realize that, working together, we can make a difference in the lives of students and our communities. An enriching learning community can be achieved if we, as educators, make connections with other academic disciplines and each other.

          Art processes can open up new ways of seeing the community, society, and the world. Through art, students are able to learn to respect and appreciate differing points of view and the different cultures surrounding them.

          I believe that students must learn to give and receive feedback in the form of constructive criticism. Every student deserves to be heard and respected for their ideas. Through critique and individual attention to student work, confidence and teamwork can be fostered. Individual projects and relevant articles that are posted on student message boards allow for well thought out feedback and positive suggestions from peers. This also gives everyone a chance to contribute fully while utilizing current technologies.

           I continuously grow as a teacher by being open to learning from my experiences and seeking out new philosophies and techniques in order to make my curriculum rich and my lessons rewarding. It is my goal to instill a love of learning and a thirst for knowledge. I am passionate about making a difference in each life that I touch and I aim to set an enthusiastic and sincere example so that my students may become informed, responsible adults with the ability to speak the language of art.      

​     MY PHILOSOPHY FOR TEACHING YOUNG ADULTS​