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- ISSN: 2155-7993
- Journal of Modern Education Review
How Works of Art Put Their Observer in A Transformative Disposition
(Hellenic Open University, Greece; The Athens College Elementary School, Greece)
Abstract: The paper examines the dynamics of observing works of art in the light of J. Mezirow’s Transformative Learning theory. The paper’s main axis is to explore the idea that the thoughtful way of “reading” an artwork helps the learner to confront his established viewpoints and “see” in a new light the grid of their habits of mind. Consequently, we examine the influence that the observation of artworks exercises on the transformation of views through the educational technique “Focus Consciously” and the educational method Notice – Accept – Reconsider my Truths (NART).
Targets to be pursued:
Ÿ To acknowledge the observation of artworks as part of the transformative course in an educational framework,
Ÿ To recognize the scope of the reflective disposition that can be triggered by observing artworks,
Ÿ To present processes proving the influence that the observation of artworks may have in the transformation of possible dysfunctional assumptions.
The approach draws on the ideas of the Frankfurt School on aesthetics, on Dewey’s views on art and of course on Mezirow’s view of the role of art in triggering disorienting dilemmas. Project Zero ideas are also being used through the visible and artful thinking programs.
Key words: habits of mind, observation of artworks, transformation of dysfunctional assumptions
