Sorry I'll miss class on Tuesday!
Interesting connection on the VTS (visual thinking strategies). This also reminds me of our discussions in an earlier art course about our currently developing visual culture. So much that we see today is visual. I think it’s important for students not only to learn to participate in the visual arts, but also use those skills & knowledge that they gain in the art room to help them “decode” and understand the visual world in which they live.
Many times, it’s challenging in my seventh grade art class to have students just work. They’re constantly asking questions “is this ok?” or “does this look right?”. We have a few documentation cameras at my school that I’ve taken a liking to. They’re a great camera that works like an overhead, but it projects what you’re doing up on screen.
I’ve found lately that by using this tool, I’m able demonstrate a specific skill and have all the individuals see clearly. This tool has greatly reduced the continuous questions and allows me to work with the students. They can see that I’m working and it helps them to keep on task. I’ve also found that I’ve had many more moments of complete silence, which signals that they’re able to get a better grasp on the concepts and are able make the switch to their right brain.
I’m looking forward to finishing the book. There have been many good insights and examples.