Abstract

This study is an exploration of approaches to the study of art which focuses on content and creating new levels of meaning. It examines postmodern art education theory and provides examples of practical and specific implementation of these theories. Some of the issues to be addressed are arguments for incorporating an issue-based approach as well as the benefits and limitations of using visual culture in the art classroom. I found successful approaches for teaching students to appreciate art as an important part of learning about life by observing one art teacher at work in her classes. I also interviewed her and her students about her teaching methods. Both her classes and the interviews were video-taped. A condensed video document is provided to support the written thesis.* *This dissertation is a compound document (contains both a paper copy and a DVD as part of the dissertation). The DVD requires the following system requirements: Windows MediaPlayer or RealPlayer