MA, Kent State University, 2020, College of the Arts / School of Art

This action research study examines restructuring my elementary visual art curriculum to allow for a higher level of student choice through a studio classroom. My curriculum transition to choice-based art education is influenced by the Teaching for Artistic Behavior philosophy and pedagogy. Using a case study as part of my action research, I study teachers who have already restructured their curriculums, classrooms, and teaching philosophies. Through dialogue and interviews with three visual art teachers I aim to better understand the components of Teaching for Artistic Behavior and how to implement it in practice. The literature review provides a historical context and contemporary thoughts on choice-based education, art education, and choice-based art education. The study's findings through data analysis aim to find balance within a choice-based approach and acknowledge the barriers, challenges, and positives of transitioning the art curriculum.

Committee: Robin Vande Zande Dr. (Advisor) Subjects: Art Education