Technology in art.

The word "technology" derives from the Greek word technologia. While the general definition of technology covers the tools and crafts of humankind, the term more recently has come to focus upon a wide variety of electronic media. When contemplating technology in the curriculum, however, the term becomes a bit narrower with a concentration upon computers, software, and operating systems. This concentration is readily seen in the National Standards for Technology. Under the standards, students are expected to:

1. know the characteristics and uses of hardware and operating systems.;

2. know the characteristics and uses of software programs;

3. understand the relationships among science, technology, society, and the individual;

4. understand the nature of technological design;

5. understand the nature and operation of systems;

6. understand the nature and uses of different forms of technology.

Should you, as a student teacher in art, concern yourself with the technology standards? The answer is a resounding "yes"! Almost any educator will tell you, integrating technology into lessons increases student interest, motivation, and achievement.

Integrating Technology in Art

As with all art lessons, keep art central and begin by seeking meaning. Do not allow art to become the handmaiden to other content areas. A good way to develop an art-based technology lesson is to contrast and compare the Technology Standards to the Visual Arts Standards. Do you notice any similarities? Do you see a common vision between the two sets of standards?

Keep in mind that both art and technology empower students to communicate information in diverse and effective ways. How can you assist students with communication of art ideas through technology?

Besides computers, software, and operating systems, can you think of other technology that meets the National Standards?

Art-Based Technology Lessons

1. Electronic presentations add a bit of pizzazz to student reports while providing opportunities to research and then format essential material in ways that engage the presenter as well as the audience. Ask students to use the Internet to research artists, create an electronic slide show, and present their report to their colleagues. What technology and art standards will such a lesson meet?

2. Visit art museums online. Many have games, puzzles, and other educational materials related to specific collections and exhibitions. A museum Web site can introduce and reinforce, or reflect upon art lessons while giving students an opportunity to learn effective search techniques.

3. Communicate via e-mail with artists or other professionals in the visual arts. Interviewing art professionals encourages students to think about the wide variety of art careers available to them.

4. Introduce drawing software and ask students to translate a traditional work of art into an electronic version.

5. Manipulate photographs or scanned images using art software.

References

Stephens, P. "Not Art in the Dark." SchoolArts (January 2003), p. 33.

Stephens, P. & Walkup, N. "Connecting with an Artist." SchoolArts (January 2000), p. 46-50.

Pam Stephens is a SchoolArts advisory board member and she coordinates the art education program at Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff. Send questions, comments, or ideas for future columns to Pamela. [e-mail]

WEB LINK

www.mcrel.org Illustration by Jim McNeill.