Visual art as means and subject of instruction: Various approaches and strategies

Abstract

The paper looks at various approaches and strategies of using visual art in nursery schools and elementary schools in accordance with theory-based concepts of the abilities and interests of children in these age groups. The teaching of younger children which emphasizes gaining experience through creative work and other age-appropriate approaches and strategies helps children learn about the visual arts, but also about content from other subjects of study. On the other hand, with older children the focus shifts to gaining knowledge about art, though this does not exclude creative work as well as the integration of visual arts content with the content of other subjects, thus leading to the achievement of more general educational goals. Therefore, drawing on the relevant literature from educational practice and museum and gallery work, and in accordance with what is known about the developmental competences of nursery age and elementary school age children, this paper aims to promote the adoption of adequate approaches and strategies in teaching, using visual art as the subject or as a means of instruction.