Child Growth and Development in Art Education

CFA PS 630

This course employs personal art making, discussion, qualitative research, presentations and written reflections as the various forms students use to demonstrate their understanding of the psychological, cultural and artistic development of children and adolescents. The theories of foundational developmental psychologists Gardner, Piaget, and Vygotsky are considered as well as the theories of artistic development put forth by Burton and Lowenfeld, Hurwitz and others. The contributions of art educators Eisner and Malaguzzi are also discussed. Specifically, the course will examine the role of the senses, emotions and intellect in shaping artistic development, and of the layered integrations they form over time. Artists-teachers need carefully consider the nature of those who will learn; what is to be taught; and the values of the society in which education takes place. The course will offer opportunities to reflect on the various conceptions of the learner that will guide educational practices, from behavioral psychologists to artists and educators.