AED 201WHistory and Philosophy of Art Education in Schools and Cultural Institutions

3 credits · Art Education · Penn State

Introduction to historical, philosophical, and sociological foundations art education in schools and cultural institutions, museums, and community organizations. A ED 201W A ED 201W History and Philosophy of Art Education in Schools and Cultural Institutions (3)Art education is not an isolated phenomenon; art teaching and learning has always occurred in the context of broader cultural changes and a range of social factors, including technological developments and population diversity. This course examines the historical, philosophical, and sociological foundations of art education in the United States. Art education can be found in a variety of formal and informal settings, including schools, community arts organizations and museums. Students will examine questions such as, what was the purpose of teaching art in the past? Was art study a means to improving social status, to attaining technical literacy, or to vocational training? Did education in art promote a democratic way of life? Or did it help reproduce existing divisions of race, gender, class, and ethnicity in American society? This course examines past and present developments in art education, paying special attention to the relation of art teaching and learning in contexts of art worlds, schooling, cultural institutions, and changing demographics. While the course will focus on art education in the United States, art education in a global context will be addressed as appropriate.