Integrating Arts into the Classroom is a graduate-level pilot course comprised of teacher certification students in their fifth and final quarter en route to a master's in teaching degree. The point Moats wanted to make on this day involved delivery. Rather than lecture, actively involving the students in the exploration of the visual arts is the key, she said. A series of interesting, yet simple questions is the best technique, according to Moats. Looking at art needs to be an inquiry into the artwork via students' interpretations and observations.
Kids are curious.
Work through their interests and weave in information during the process. Moats' message struck a familiar chord with the students in the Henry Gallery auditorium. They've been going through their own inquiry into the arts during the course. Nathalie Gehrke, the director of teacher education in the College of Education, hopes the inquiry can continue on a permanent basis. But for the time being, Gehrke, who facilitates the course, is keeping the program afloat on limited funds.