My Educational Philosophy
My philosophy of Art education is an electic analysis that draws
upon each area of philosophical thought for what it has to contribute in forming
a holistic view of Art. The study of Art is essential for the understanding
of our historical, cultural, interpersonal, and international relationship
to the world as well as its moral, cognitive, and aesthetic aspects which
are comprised of perception awareness, and the understanding of humanity.
Art empowers the release of spontaneity, inventiveness, creativity, and develops
ones true understanding of the nature of their existence. I agree with Rousseau
idea of an "open classroom". Students should be allowed to direct
their own learning through the exploration of their environment. Students
should be encouraged to learn by doing to develop their sense perceptions
which will enable them to come in touch with real life experiences. One method
for inspiring students is through the reinforcement of an individual's self
concept in a postive manner. Skinner's viewpoint is that, "positive reinforcement
should be practiced on a societal scale". Since students are a direct
reflection of their environment I feel that student achievements should be
acknowledged from an early age through their adult life. The mind may be compared
to a computer which has to be programmed to use, transmit, and interpret symbols
effectively. Art educators are responsible for directing the proper functioning
of each student in learning to grasp all the components of problem solving.
The study of Art puts one in touch with the various aspects of nature, and
aids in the discovery of a variety of experiences. The goal of Art is to represent
the reality of nature which becomes the subject matter of a work of Art. Realistic
Art represents what is actual, whereas an Idealistic philosopher such as Plato
would strive to study nature, but try to improve on it. I agree with Plato
that the ideas are what is real. Also, art educators need to incorporate the
ideas of Dewy's pragnatism in trying to determine what values and purposes
does the art serve. How effective the work of art, and how is the quality
of workmanship. The study of Art extends one's capacity to learn about oneself
and can give increasing perceptiveness and insight about almost every aspect
of life and the world around us.
