Modern technology is creating new opportunities for creative expression and learning. As children become familiar with digital tools they can create and experience art at school in exciting new ways. And increasingly, teachers are combining traditional techniques with creative technologies to deliver more engaging lessons. Let’s look at the top ways new innovations are being integrated into art education.
How Technology Can Support Children’s Art Education
From young children learning the basics of art to older students working to refine their skills, technology has plenty to offer. These technologies support standard lessons and offer entirely new ways to learn.
Use Digital Drawing and Painting Tools
Digital drawing and painting tools offer an alternative to the crayons, pencils, brushes and paper so familiar to young children. As kids experiment with these tools, they work on the same fine motor skills, focus, creativity and self-confidence that are developed using traditional approaches. One key benefit of popular tools like Adobe Fresco is the ability to immediately change one’s mind or undo mistakes, encouraging experimentation without fear of error.
Attend Virtual Museum Tours
Visiting art galleries and museums is an important part of a child’s art education. However, experiencing the world’s biggest and most celebrated museums won’t be possible for most kids. Fortunately, many galleries (including the Louvre and The Metropolitan Museum of Art) provide online visits and virtual tours to give interactive experiences from home or the classroom.
Create Digital Art Portfolios
A digital art portfolio is a creative way to engage school children in art. Just as kids enjoy keeping sketchbooks filled with their art, a digital portfolio can store art in an easy-to-access location. Various tools like Artsonia allow users to add their portfolios and track their progress as the collection grows.
Collaborate With Online Art Tools
Group art projects play an important role in developing teamwork and communication. With a digital tool like Scribble Together, children can take turns sketching ideas and sharing them as a group. These fun drawing exercises encourage planning, social skills and collaboration.
Use Art History Apps and Online Lessons
Learning about famous artists and movements throughout history is a vital part of art education for young students. At Golden Road Arts we have lessons demonstrating the techniques of various artists, from Leonardo da Vinci to Claude Monet and beyond. A child can learn about the interesting lives of these painters as they discover their works.
Watch Online Art Tutorials
Instructional guides can be just as important in helping children develop their skills. For instance, our online art lessons for kids feature lessons aimed at different age groups, including walkthrough tutorials that explain how each step works. By integrating these online lessons into art education, both teachers and parents can supplement hands-on instruction with professional demonstrations and techniques.
Enhance Children’s Art Education With Free Lessons
Golden Road Arts is an Oregon non-profit creating instructional videos and art literacy guides for elementary and middle school children. Parents and teachers alike can use our tutorials to help children develop their artistic abilities. Watch our free art lessons here.
