An Arts-Based Approach

Students learn computer software while developing performance skills, working to solve a variety of problems in imaginative ways as success builds confidence. Projects are self-reflecting and a form of personal drama played out on the computer stage. We learn about learners lives in many respects. This approach provides opportunities for artwork as students create their own visual displays. The framing of the work, the layout and design are further forms of self-expression and communication as they create illustrations of their stories.

The instructor guides as projects graduate from simple storytelling activities then translate into more complex presentations and elaborate web page portfolios. These computer-generated forms of communication demonstrate a level of performance and exhibition of skills and expertise to be evaluated by learners and their peers. Evaluation guidelines are generated in discussions about projects criteria. A beneficial aspect of an arts-based approach to the teaching and learning of technology-related courses are the self-affirming aspects. It is gratifying to observe learners demonstrating a definitive gain in self-confidence by the end of the course.