Between art illusion and art education in schools. (c2009)

Abstract

Few studies were conducted concerning the teaching of art in Lebanese private schools. The teaching of art as a school subject is neglected in some Lebanese schools. There is an underestimation of art in these educational settings and an unawareness of its effect on the students' progress in their academic context and their life. Furthermore, other gaps are found in this discipline especially in the program, teaching skills, and art classrooms. This study sheds light on these problems through observing art classes, interviewing the teachers, and questioning the students in three private Lebanese schools located in Beirut. Although the researcher faced some problems like the refusal of the observation sessions' occurrence in one school and the low number of observed sessions in the two other schools, she was still able to collect data that came up with useful results. Teachers lack teaching strategies and don't rely on a organized and well-based program, but this doesn't mean that modifications cannot be made if the school is willing to value more the art and place it on the level of other well estimated disciplines.