I am convinced that there are many many ways to teach art that are far better than drawing on the artwork of a child. Teachers have argued with me about this, saying that drawing on the work is the fastest way to show how to do something. I have found that there are many reasons that my students make what look like mistakes. If I correct them or make a suggestion, it sends a message that I do not care to find out why they did what they did. I have not bothered to learn about them or their motivations. When I make the effort to find out their ideas and motivations, I may find that my instructions were not as clear as I thought (a fairly common learning moment for me). At other times I am blown away by where a student is coming from. The outcome is not what I had envisioned, but when seen in the light of a students perception, it can be something quite insightful. Sometimes, it becomes clear that the student did not pay attention during instructions (so what else is new). While this is frustrating to me, for me to correct the work, can add to student confusion. If I start with a question, the problem can reveal itself and I it gives me a chance to ask another student to help explain the assignment (reinforcement and review). I have found that it is much safer if I ask an open question before I offer a suggestion or even think of correcting an artwork (Can you tell me more about this? Can you explain a bit more of what you wanted to show here?). Questions like this may help me get on the same teaching/learning page. Sometimes we can find options that are not so difficult, while still challenging the advanced students (some students are good at helping me explain teaching/learning communication problems). If I correct student artwork (or offer a suggestion), I am admitting that I am a product centered teacher. I would rather be teaching the process of creating art. The process of creation does not originate in the teacher. It grows from within the student. I would rather see art that grows out of practice, out of experience, out of observation, out of student thought and choice, and out of individual student imagination; not from my preconceived notion of how the art product should look (as an artist myself, it is easy for me to solve their problems for them--but that does not give them the practice). As a teacher, I need to help manage the learning experience, provide focus and motivation, but not usurp the creative thought process. Philosophically, I know it is best to find ways for students to learn seeing, feeling, imagining, interpreting, expressing, and thinking. I do not need to see certain expert predetermined looks in their artwork. I want to exhibit student artwork that shows that each student has had an independent say in something about how the work looks. One way I do this is to include an "independent criterion variable" in every assignment. The independent criterion variable is like an artistic question or problem every individual must express in a personal and creative way (like individual creative branding) even though the assignment has other rather strict limitations. Cliches are prohibited in advance. If I correct it or touch it up, it tends to put my brand on something that should reflect choices and ideas originating with the the maker--not the teacher. I hope this makes sense and gives food for thought. Let me know where I am wrong. Contact the author
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