Byambatseren

Introduction of Action Research Based Learning Methods for Art Education in Mongolia

Galbadrakh Byambatseren, Mongolian State University of Education, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Abstract:

One of the main purposes of Mongolian education reform is to create independent learners using contemporary research. The action research investigation supported developing communities of inquiry to discuss the processes of quality art education. The purpose of the action research study was to investigate a) how to increase the understanding of the benefits for young students of fine art training and b) how to motivate students to continue their participatory action research-based learning and self-actualized creative projects. The key rationales for the study were that a) learners can acquire knowledge, share and distribute it through discourse and b) students can be motivated by their own creative interests to acquire knowledge and share their findings. The researcher chose a participatory constant comparative method of data collection and analysis which revealed differences between using a new method and a more traditional, prescriptive approach for young students’ art process and motivation, ages 12 to 16. The analysis demonstrated that students’ interest and creativity were increased with the introduction of more contemporary research based learning art education methods. The study results suggest the need for further research to expand the scope of action research investigation with the purpose of modernizing art curriculum using 21 st century research based learning methods for the Mongolian public education program. Using an action research approach, benefits for fine art training were found; a) students acquired art knowledge during their action research and b) students developed their creative thinking, research ability and teamwork building skills.

Keywords:

fine art training, action research based learning, training method