Not because of a degree or course taken or a test told me so, but because I share my knowledge and my passion for life with others. This thirst for information was instilled in me at a young age by my parents who are still both teachers. They demonstrated how not only the classroom but how life was full of wonder and discoveries yet to be learned. I am a third-generation teacher, and this approach to life shows in the classroom.

As an art teacher, I am charged with the task of creating a firm foundation which students can then build upon with their own personal ideas and passions. This foundation must consist of art history, giving multiple viewpoints and differing perspectives, as well as an understanding of the formal elements and principles of art. However, this knowledge must be passed on in such a way that the student remains engaged and shown its relevance, lest it be dismissed and forgotten. Therefore, practical application is a major point in teaching, as it gives students the “why should I care” factor. The use of the Cognitivism and Andragogy theories addresses this question and lays out a clear process. However, they do fail to keep the human nature elements in learning as is found in Humanism per Madsen & Wilson Humanistic theory of learning. Convincingly, a blend of all three teaching methods gives a more encompassing teaching strategy.

I believe that teaching should be taught in a holistic way, entwining subjects, and pointing out how they build upon each other. This method creates unique opportunities for different types of learners to be engaged in lessons where they might not be otherwise. It is also imperative that, as teachers, we build students’ confidence. By breaking down large projects into smaller segments, students can accomplish what originally were overwhelming feats. Changing their inner voice from saying “there is no way” to “I know I can because I have achieved past goals, and when I break this project down, I can create a successful plan”.

My belief is that learning never ends, and that opportunities to expand our knowledge should never be silenced. The desire to learn should not only be encouraged, but it needs to be protected. The children of today are the decision makers of tomorrow, and without knowledge how can we expect them to make the best-informed decisions in the challenges that they will face?