Teaching Philosophy

Teaching Philosophy

A professor's role is to empower students with self-motivation and critical thinking skills that extend beyond the classroom. These skills foster curiosity and a drive to create art. Courses in the visual arts enable students to expand their horizons in both formal and conceptual aspects, equipping them with the technical vocabulary necessary for their growth as contemporary artists. This commitment has guided me throughout my teaching journey, as I stay current in the field, continuously research contemporary visual art, and produce art as a mid-career artist. These efforts cultivate ideas and creativity within the studio environment.

Drawing from my past professional experiences, particularly as an Instructor of Art/Director of Visual Art talent at Olivet College, I've imparted foundational visual art techniques. My approach prioritizes cultivating critical thinking and integrating theory-based conceptual problem-solving skills, regardless of students' age or experience in the visual arts.

This pedagogical approach to visual art education has evolved over my years of teaching. By recognizing students' strengths and adapting my curriculum to their learning styles, I optimize their retention of course content. My classroom engagement methods include artist lectures, group critiques, visual aids, written assignments like self-assessment and reflections, as well as one-on-one interactions.

I assess my effectiveness in the classroom/studio through direct feedback from students, colleagues, and administrators. These evaluations have proven enlightening, enhancing my capabilities to address students' needs in both formal and conceptual aspects of contemporary art. While I acknowledge that perfection isn't attainable, I am in a constant state of adaptation, transitioning from a teacher-centered to a student-centered approach. To support this shift, I've implemented diverse collaborative learning methods within the arts. By promoting group research and studio application and acknowledging individual strengths in solving intricate visual collaborative challenges, I prepare students with the skills and motivation needed to flourish as contemporary artists.

Donald W. VanAuken