Art Sparks blends diverse teaching, therapeutic, and mindfulness techniques with technology to optimize transformative learning.
Our primary teaching approach—being student-centered—weaves through our mix of diverse techniques. Being participant-centered leads to emergent and play-based learning, and boosts student engagement in the classroom. For example, students are invited to share their experiences and ideas. As this encourages learning that comes from the students themselves, this approach is aptly called “emergent teaching.”
Having fun is essential for vibrant engagement, which gives rise to transformative learning. Facilitated activities, such as improv dance, encourage embodied learning. Listening and affirming students respectfully is foundational to student-centered learning.
Teaching Techniques
include student-centered, play- and choice-based approaches, i.e., asking open-ended questions to engage participants “where they are.”
Therapeutic Techniques
include interpreting artwork with empathy, compassion, and affirmation, rather than praise and judgment.
Mindfulness Techniques
include guided meditations to help participants listen to their inner selves.
Technology
includes video with music and diverse accents.
