Blog 9

In Kalin's chapter, we are given some suggestions for creating a safe (physically, emotionally, and socially) environment in which children can learn in, through and about art. Look at the guidelines on pg. 154-155. Describe how you might address each of these guidelines with the child you will be working with.

1. Establish a sense of security through consistently dealing with students in a fair and balanced way using persuasion rather than power or threat to solve problems

• Consistency is key; I would make sure I would deal with each student in an equitable manner while understanding and managing that each student is an individual. I would give them positive comments about their work by telling them that they are doing a great job; by doing this, you give the students confidence when they have a problem. Telling them the possiblities of solving a problem and being enthusiastic about it is also a key, so that they are not concentrating on the frustrating aspects of a situation

2. Set up parameters for class interaction and limits on behaviour.

• I would set up rules of how I would expect the students to behave. As a teacher, you are always around the students to monitor different behaviours to prevent them from getting out of control before something inappropriate happens, or reacting to inapproriateness with a reasonable but firm response. I would do that by using non-verbal cues first, like eye contact, to let them know that you are aware of their behaviour and giving them a chance to stop. This would be dealing with situations in a calm and quiet way without getting other students attention. If a non-verbal cue is not enough, however, I would then progress to direct verbal communication of what I would expect, and deal with the situation from there.

3. Allow students adequate time and instruction so that they can have the opportunity to develop a sense of competence in particular art activities.

• I would instruct them at the beginning of the art activity so that they know what is expected to be done at the end. You don't want to rush the student through the development of the art experience. Setting appropriate timelines, though, also help the students focus and plan. I would make sure to leave an appropriate amount of time for each activity!

4. Provide immediate and meaningful feedback during the formative stages of learning so that students know what they can do well and how they can improve.

• Giving the students positive feedback about their art work allows the student to be confident and encourage them that they can do art very well. When you see where the students could improve their work you give them suggestions of how they can improve without giving them any negative vibe.

5. Strive for a sense of connectedness within the class.

• Talking to the children and getting them involved and excited about the things that they are doing builds your relationship with them. Both sides are happy and enthusiastic. Getting students to celebrate their own work and the work of others, and working on colllaborative projects, also builds a sense of community within the classroom.

6. Show respect for individual differences across cultures, religions, learning styles, race, gender, and thinking by using activities, language, and visuals that support student diversity.

• Helping them understand that everyone is different and unique, and that diversity makes all of us special, is important. Allowing students a chance to speak, demonstrate, and work with culturally diverse materials allows for respect and tolerance to grow. We live in a multicultural country where there are many ethic groups. Showing respect to others mean others will respect you.

7. Develop a feeling of belonging by letting students collaborate and bond with a variety of peers under various circumstances.

• I would form the students into groups where they get to know other people besides their friends, allowing them to communicate and cooperate with each other. Groups would change all the time, and hopefully students would have a chance to "shine" in different circumstances, enhancing their self-worth.

8. Focus on the postive and build on students' unique strengths so that students will persevere in their artistc endeavours.

• Again, giving them positive feedback lets them know that you are aware of their abilities and helps them build self-esteem. Allowing students some choice in projects and assignments allows them to build and showcase their individual strengths.

9. Be caring, respectful, and nurturing at all times.

• Showing that you care and respect the students allows them to build self confidence and lets them know that they will have someone to help guide them if they need it. Providing opportunities for students to be successful allows them to grow both intellectually and emotionally.