The Learner-Directed Classroom: Developing Creative Thinking Skills Through Art

Educators at all levels want their students to develop habits of self-directed learning and critical problem-solving skills that encourage ownership and growth. In The Learner-Directed Classroom, practicing art educators (PreK–16) offer both a comprehensive framework for understanding student-directed learning and concrete pedagogical strategies to implement student-direct learning activities in school. In addition, research-based assessment strategies provide educators with evidence of student mastery and achievement. Teachers who structure self-directed learning activities can facilitate effective differentiation as students engage in the curriculum at their level. This book provides evidence-based, practical examples of how to transform the classroom into a creative and highly focused learning environment.

Book Features:

• Guidance for implementing a learner-directed program, including advocacy, management, differentiated instruction, and resources.
• Attention to the needs of specific groups of students, including preadolescents, gifted and talented learners, boys, and those with learning differences.
• Insights into reflective practice and strategies for assessment of learning.

Diane B. Jaquith is a K–5 art teacher in Newton, MA and a co-founder of Teaching for Artistic Behavior, Inc., a choice-based art education advocacy organization. She is the co-author of Engaging Learners Through Artmaking: Choice-Based Art Education in the Classroom. Nan E. Hathaway is a middle school art teacher in Duxbury, VT. She is a gifted education specialist and is on the board of directors for Teaching for Artistic Behavior, Inc.. She is the author of studio-learning.blogspot.com.