We effect learning in many obvious and unlikely ways

It came to me one day during a conversation about musical likes and dislikes with some students in my classroom. I would label my musical tastes as very eclectic. Jazz is one of the styles I shared with the group. “Jazz?!?” was quipped back. “Where did you learn how to like Jazz?” It caused me to begin thinking and then the answer hit me some time later. While indulging in my favorite visual art form (animation) the answer to the question appeared. The Vince Guaraldi trio was where I was exposed to jazz. Remember Vince? You may not remember the name but I know you remember the music. Charles Schultz used the Vince Guaraldi trio to supply the background music for his animators to integrate into the classic Peanuts animated television series. My enjoyment of jazz began in the pre-MTV era in front of the television set while being bombarded with animated images of Charlie Brown, Lucy, Snoopy, and the like.

How are we influencing the students of today in ways that their visual art culture is being developed for their future lives? By presenting to them the widest base of art educational experiences we can. Students need to learn about all forms of visual culture not just the ones we personally like best. A comprehensive program will enlighten students on not only a multitude of media and skill development techniques, but also artists, styles, and cultures. I am here to tell you that the term multimedia may be new but the concept is very old. The melding of visual images with movement, music, and drama has been around probably since the beginning of mankind. The Peanuts television programs were and are multimedia productions. In our world of art education it is the tools and techniques that change and students need to be in tune to the changes and evolution. Studying the “masters” is essential, however studying contemporary art, media, and culture is just as essential.

So, what will you do in your classroom tomorrow that will have an influence on your students at that time and well into the future? We probably cannot determine that. What we can do is to provide the best experience that we can so students continue to learn and grow in the world of art. Let me make a suggestion. Go put on some Jazz or any other favorite music of your choice and ponder student learning for your classes. It might spark a great idea or concept and maybe bring up some fine memories for yourself.

It’s all about instruction and learning.

Tom Kelchner