Archived Information

Transforming Ideas for Teaching and Learning The Arts - March 1997

Employ Modern Technology to Encourage Imaginative Use of Artistic Material

The effect of participation with computers in compositional activities was more beneficial than using programs that stressed music fundamentals.
A conclusion reached by both Kozerski 36
and Conant 37
"Use computers. Introduce students to software. . . . Provide instruction that will allow them to create art on the computer. Discuss ways computers are used by professional artists. Ask students to find examples of computer-generated art in books, magazines, and newspapers."
Art Strategies
Fairfax County Public Schools, Virginia 38
Computers, which are descended from simpler, programmed-learning devices, were first used by arts teachers for rote learning the names and dates of artists, drama plots, key signatures, etc. A well-known computer program taught musical intervals as a purely mental exercise without any aural involvement by the student. Now, the many wonders of modern technology are being used routinely and more imaginatively, but many arts educators remain intimidated by the machines.

Practice

Russ Gibb, originally a creative-writing teacher at Dearborn, Michigan High School, now considers himself a facilitator as he and his students explore the creative possibilities of the video camera and the computer. 39 James Irwin at the Maret School in Washington, DC, introduces ninth graders to melody, harmony, notation, orchestration, and style by having them create original musical ideas with computers and a 16-voice multitimbral keyboard. 40
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[Lead Students to New Ways of Solving Problems Through Unique Challenges in the Arts, Both Mental and Physical] [Table of Contents] [Arts Specialists are Educators Who are Also Skilled in at Least One Arts Disciplinel]