What is Visual Thinking Strategies?
Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) is an educational approach that uses art to develop critical thinking, communication, and visual literacy skills. It involves open-ended discussions about works of art, where participants are encouraged to observe, interpret, and discuss what they see. VTS is used in a variety of settings, including schools, museums, and corporate training programs.
VTS is based on the idea that looking at art can help individuals develop their observational skills, think critically, and communicate effectively. By engaging in discussions about art, participants are able to practice skills such as making observations, asking questions, and supporting their opinions with evidence.
History of Visual Thinking Strategies
Visual Thinking Strategies was developed in the 1980s by cognitive psychologist Abigail Housen and museum educator Philip Yenawine. They were inspired by the work of art historian Ernst Gombrich, who believed that looking at art could help individuals develop their visual literacy skills.
The approach was first used in museums as a way to engage visitors in discussions about art. Over time, VTS has been adapted for use in schools and other educational settings, where it has been shown to improve students’ critical thinking skills and academic performance.
Key Principles of Visual Thinking Strategies
The key principles of Visual Thinking Strategies include the importance of open-ended questions, active listening, and evidence-based reasoning. Participants are encouraged to look closely at works of art, make observations, ask questions, and support their opinions with evidence from the artwork.
VTS also emphasizes the value of multiple perspectives and the idea that there is no right or wrong answer when discussing art. Participants are encouraged to consider different viewpoints and engage in respectful dialogue with others.
Benefits of Visual Thinking Strategies in Art Education
Visual Thinking Strategies has been shown to have numerous benefits in art education. It helps students develop their critical thinking skills, visual literacy, and ability to communicate effectively. By engaging in discussions about art, students are able to practice skills such as observation, interpretation, and analysis.
VTS also helps students develop empathy and cultural awareness by encouraging them to consider different perspectives and viewpoints. It can also improve students’ academic performance by helping them develop their analytical and reasoning skills.
Implementing Visual Thinking Strategies in the Classroom
There are several ways to implement Visual Thinking Strategies in the classroom. Teachers can start by selecting works of art that are engaging and thought-provoking for students. They can then facilitate discussions by asking open-ended questions, encouraging active listening, and promoting evidence-based reasoning.
Teachers can also provide scaffolding and support for students as they engage in discussions about art. This can include modeling how to make observations, ask questions, and support opinions with evidence. Teachers can also create a safe and respectful environment for students to share their thoughts and ideas.
Criticisms and Controversies Surrounding Visual Thinking Strategies
While Visual Thinking Strategies has many benefits, it has also faced criticisms and controversies. Some critics argue that VTS may not be effective for all students, particularly those who have limited exposure to art or who struggle with visual literacy skills.
There are also concerns about the subjectivity of art interpretation and the idea that there is no right or wrong answer when discussing art. Some critics argue that VTS may not provide students with clear guidelines for how to analyze and interpret works of art.
Despite these criticisms, Visual Thinking Strategies continues to be a popular and effective educational approach for developing critical thinking, communication, and visual literacy skills. It has been widely adopted in schools, museums, and other educational settings as a way to engage students in discussions about art and develop their analytical and reasoning skills.