ARTS 4890. TEACHING MULTICULTURALISM THROUGH ART: K-12 (3-0-3)

This course is designed for future K-12 educators who want to incorporate art as an interdisciplinary strategy to teach their students about various aspects of our multicultural world. The course combines critical theory with "hands-on," practical experiences. Students will learn how to use (and adapt) basic lesson plans and "hands-on" art-related activities to foster their future students' multicultural awareness global, national, community, and personal issues. The course also features a service learning/school placement component to provide students with practical opportunities to contribute and make valuable connections in our local communities. Our theoretical textbook for this class is by bell hooks, and important African American feminist educator, theorist, and social critic. The author speaks to the heart of education today: how can we rethink teaching practices in the age of multiculturalism? What can we do about teachers who do not want to teach and students who do not want to learn? How should we deal with racism and sexism in the classroom? This course offers a uniquely innovative approach to multicultural, interdisciplinary education that connects everyday experience, social critique, and creative expression with practical learning and community outreach. (Equivalent to ARED 4890).