I am a trainee fine art teacher conducting an independent research study looking at the potential use of social networking/blogging in Further Education. It is my aim to use ICT skills to reformat the traditional evaluative journal completed as part of the BTEC 1st Diploma, and many other art courses, in an attempt to engage students that find the current handwritten format difficult or uninspiring.
It is my belief that an online journal has the potential to engage students with any learning style as it can cater to read/write learners through blogging and email, visual learners via video and digital photography and auditory learners using pod casts. Furthermore, learners will be engaging practical skills in production and display of work, which will support kinaesthetic learners and present opportunities for experiental learning. The potential to create networks will allow learners to comment on each others work to provide peer feedback and support whilst developing critical analysis skills. Furthermore, students can experiment with self promotion by developing an online presence as a practising artist.
The ability to upload sound or video files will remove some of the barriers presented by the written word for those with dyslexia or low literacy skills, yet will still encourage reflective practise. Learners will also be able to share links and references to encourage research and support web based searching and communication skills.
Incorporating web based technology will support students in meeting Fine Art criteria and developing subject specific skills whilst simultaneously promoting empolyability and life skills allowing self directed and independent learning.
