The Implementation of Art Appreciation Courses in Chinese University General Education: A Case Study

Abstract

This research critically evaluates and assesses the current status of Art Appreciation Courses (AAC) within the General Education (GE) curriculum in Chinese universities. The investigation is focused on delineating the strengths, pinpointing the weaknesses, and identifying potential areas for improvement. The research methodology encompasses a thorough review of relevant literature and the implementation of a qualitative case study approach. Interviews were conducted with four AAC instructors, selected through purposive sampling, and their documents were subjected to analysis. The primary findings suggest that the instructors are committed to enhancing students' humanities knowledge, aesthetic education, and artistic abilities by developing appreciation skills. However, they encounter several challenges, including a limited knowledge base among students, inadequate course duration, insufficient facilities, and a tenuous connection between the course and the major. The instructors adhere to a teaching philosophy integrating aesthetic education using a situational model, cultivating positive attitudes and distinctive courses. Our study recommends several enhancements for Art Appreciation Courses (AAC) in Chinese universities. We suggest diversifying AAC topics and facilitating cross-cultural comparisons. Active learning should be promoted through interactive methods and participation in art activities. Interdisciplinary integration can be bolstered by collaborating with other disciplines. Lastly, resources should be augmented, and assessments should be diversified to foster creativity, and student engagement should be enhanced.