Integrating technology into arts education is not a terribly difficult thing to do. Technology has the potential to enhance almost any lesson in some way. A computer is one of the most useful tools when it comes to arts education. There are a number of software programs and Web 2.0 applications that can be used in the classroom. Students can edit photos with software such as Adobe Photoshop or applications such as Pixlr. Adobe Photoshop can also used in basic desktop publishing and graphic design projects. While Adobe Photoshop is certainly the go-to software in the professional world, it is quite expensive. The Art of Ed suggests Pixlr as a free alternative. Pixlr offers many of the same features as Photoshop, but without the high price tag.
One of the most intriguing things that I read about in this chapter was a computerized kiln. Until I read this chapter, I had never considered how great it would be to have a kiln with a computer to monitor it. Using a kiln can be a nerve racking process. With temperatures in excess of 2,000 degrees, there is great potential for things to go wrong. When the kiln is running it constantly needs to be monitored. Even the cooling process requires a lot of attention. A computerized kiln would make things so much simpler and safer.
The biggest concern with integrating technology into the art curriculum is funding. Due to the No Child Left Behind Act and the new high-stakes testing, funding for the arts is at an all time low. Many schools have little to no budget for this subject. I know of one school district in my area that can barely afford to buy paper for the art curriculum. Supplies are very limited. However, many of the resources listed in this chapter are available on the Internet and come at no additional cost to the school district.
When I was ordering my laptop the other day I considered getting the new Adobe, until I saw the price over $170. A free alternative is just what the cash strapped are looking for these days. I've added it to my diigo account already. Okay my only experience with a kiln was the movie where the kids shoved a witch into it. Seemed pretty dangerous then, so anything that makes the giant, super oven safer must be good.
ReplyDeleteMoney is a problem for art and music programs everywhere. It's hard to tech-up when you can't afford paper for drawing or painting. Free is great. It's just a matter of having/ getting the hardware.