[Reflection] Art Teacher's Use of New Media in Class

Using Smartboard 

I have contacted the art teacher I observed last semester regarding how she integrates new media in her art class. She mentions using smartboard in class to show imagery to the students because before that, she could only show images with books. Since she has large classes, books are less effective and engaging for the children. With smartboard, not only can she show images but during class time she can pull out information by searching online anytime during class.

For example, her 5^th grade class students started a project to make abstract compositions by using oil pastels to blend colors. She found a not very well known artist named Maria Davis who they used as an influence. When she showed them her paintings the students were just in awe and had so many questions. They had a productive discussion and the children stayed on point for half an hour – which is a long time for them! It appears smartboard has a stronger impact and works better on students who are easily distracted.
Children are always interested in technology and smartboard is able to grab their attention collectively, making it easier to lead a discussion.