TRENDS AND CHANGING CONCEPTS

* In keeping with recent trends in creative teaching, art education
proceeds through individual expression from the known to the un-
known as determined by the child's level of maturity rather than
beginning with theories and principles before he is ready for them.
A concise outline contrasting the old and new methods'is shown.


 OLD METHOD NEW METHOD

i. Isolate art as subject in itself. Art integrated not only with
 other subjects, but also with
 life situations.


z. Art used as "busy work" The child discovers himself
 serving no other purpose, through meaningful experiences
 Teacher resorts to methods, and creative expression. Inter-
 practices and stereotyped pro- est of the child is paramount.
 cesses such as patterns and Let him experiment for himself
 hectographed rabbits, etc., and interpret according to his
 which have no educational or own abilities.
 art value. Therefore, original
 and creative work is impos-
 sible.


3. Technique used as an end in The child assimilates only what
 itself. Emphasis placed on he can use. Too much teaching
 theory, principle and imposed confuses him and takes away the
 ideas and methods. Approach purpose of his original idea.
 made through intellect, not However, if he is not growing,
 through the senses, do not leave him alone. Guid-
 ance and stimulation are needed.


4. Art for the talented few; spe- Art a potential power in every
 cial recognition given their child. Work of every child ac-
 work. knowledge, displayed or used
 for its intended purpose.