Teaching Photoshop to learners requires a solid constructivist approach where independent exploration follows a short demonstration of techniques (Atherton, 2011). Laurillard’s framework for teaching and learning describes how learners follow instruction throughout a session (Atherton, 2011). Whilst I would agree that this theory explores an effective teaching method, it is important to recognise the effectiveness of autonomous, situated learning. It is important for my learners to experience a variety of technologies throughout their education to encourage their own development within the arts subject. Many art teachers are stuck in the old-school curriculum of teaching the elements and principles of art via drawing, painting, and ceramics. They unintentionally discourage many students who may not appear to be artistic– because they can only draw a stick figure– from taking art. (Ash, 2008, p. 9)
It has to be realized that art no longer surrounds the concept of painting and drawing but instead can take the form of any aspect from any subject area.
If we limit the vehicles and types of art that students are exposed to, does that not hinder their right to have the opportunity to express themselves freely? (SECAC, 2004, p.219)
The use of technology must be encouraged; to do this it must first be introduced. Art software programs, such as Adobe Photoshop, are a common fear amongst art students due to the technical language used to describe the formatting options that are made available. I must consider my own skills in relation to such software and whether I am able to teach this effectively. When using Photoshop to edit photographic documents I have the skills and the knowledge to share confidently with my learners however, when using Photoshop within graphic design I would become a barrier to learning because my own skills in this sector are weak and therefore I would be unable to inform my learners effectively; however simple instructive videos are available to encourage self directed study (see video left). If such a situation arose I would have to request further training prior to the session to ensure that my learners did not suffer from my lacking abilities within this area. The issue that I am currently facing within my institution is the stereotypical view of being technologically able due to my age and the consideration of being a tech-native.
There’s an idea that if you are tech-savvy in one area, you must be savvy in all areas and this just isn’t true. (Zemanta, 2010)
The vast majority of my learners are able to use some software consistently and the art subject provides a synchronous opportunity for learners to understand and use this knowledge in a new, constructive and enthusiastic environment. Learners that have few skills in Photoshop can be taught the basics quickly and utilize the knowledge of their peers to ensure that a good grounding with the subject is derived.
Technology allows for changes in curriculum to ensure that learners are taught skills that remain valuable for life. Photoshop skills have become an acknowledged educational program in itself since graphics designers, illustrators and artist’s alike use the program to inform their own unique studio practices. This information is often shared with learners to create an engaging learning environment where aspiration becomes the driving point for constructivist learning (Lave, 2012). The main issues surround the use of Photoshop is its availability out of the education system; learners who wish to use the program at home for example are subject to costs of around two hundred pounds for the most basic version of the software.
The legal and ethical dilemma that could be encountered by the art teacher surrounds the obtainment of software illegally through peers and possibly the Internet. It is my ethical responsibility as the teacher to discourage this behavior and abide by the Copyright Designs and Patents Act (Great Britain, 1988) that governs our society. It is essential that I ensure that the software that I introduce the learners to is original; if this is not the case I would have an ethical responsibility to report this to the designated department with high priority.
