Why should one degree program be considered "more appropriate", or more
"esteemed" by some people as to what an art teacher is supposed to have?
(Isn't that like saying there's only ONE BEST way to paint a picture? You
can only make it 18x24, start from the top and work your way down? HA!)
Certainly, with all the new accreditation for art teachers the programs and
classes, both studio and education, will overlap, and an art teacher should
be able to teach AND make art.
When I was in college, the BFA program had more studio courses. To be a
certified teacher, education courses were needed, too. The BSED program
offered less studio courses, but included the education courses needed for
certification. So.....
The folks in the BFA programs--those painters and sculptors and freelance
photographers and interior designers would scoff at those few of us who went
through the BSED program...but when all was said and done, I had a teaching
job after graduation. I told my professors that I thought I should have been
in school for six years instead of four, because I was certified K-12, at the
time.
There was no way I could have been prepared to teach at all those levels
with the instruction I received--a matter of logistics. But what needs to be
stressed is the ability of an individual to use determination, skill, and
creativity to learn about all areas of art--even those in which they did not
receive course work. If you want to learn how to paint, or draw, or
whatever, then DO IT, practice, or learn how to do it better....find out
which area(s) of expression you prefer and use it(them) to make art.
How can we encourage students to broaden and stretch themselves if we
are afraid to try something ? I want to pass on the "fire" or "passion" of
creating to my students..I want them to be able to leap for the stars, and if
they fall flat, dust themselves off and try again. And again. No amount of
college accreditation taught me that. It came from the creative spirit
within.
May you search for your own answers. I have found a path, which may be
different from yours, but I like it here just fine.
Best of luck,
Paula
