What do you see? How do you look? What do you learn?
Education experts confirm there’s a link between art experience and improved critical thinking. In doing so, they cite a number of factors at play. In particular, art teaches students to observe the world more closely. Art objects are often layered with multiple elements and meanings. It takes time to find, examine, and consider the numerous details that constitute most works of art. This process of observation and study helps teach students to more closely observe and analyze the world around them—skills that make up the bedrock of critical thinking.
Students who participate in the DAI’s visiting classroom programme engage in activities designed to encourage critical thinking. They also encourage communication, collaboration and creativity – the 4 Cs defined as the key to future success by the Partnership for 21st Century Learning.
Working with DAI staff and the Harvard University Graduate School of Education’s Project Zero Thinking Routines, students are challenged to really look at an object, apply a specific thought process to the effort, complete a task and then present their results to the entire group. And, in doing so, the students use all of the skills required to develop 4 C thinking and doing.
The DAI visiting classroom programme is open to government and private schools and classes of all levels. The programme is tailored to meet the needs of different ages and education levels. We know that what challenges a 3rd year student is not that same as what challenges an 8th grader. As much as possible, we work with the teacher to ensure that the students have a positive learning experience AND have fun in the process.
To schedule a classroom visit or for more information, email amricanieducation@gmail.com
