The importance of the sketch-book in the art lesson : proposals for effective art teaching at secondary level

Abstract

This research initiates with a broad literature review to arrive at a definition of what is a sketch-book. The sketch-book is discussed in view of students' academic achievement and the overall development of their personalities. Our study was also supported by major living Maltese artists who believe that a sketch-book is a useful way of working for developing ideas. Our research was conducted by three sets of interviews that were directed at Art teachers, Art students at secondary level who make use of sketch-books as well to those who don't use one. The analysis of these interviews, reveals the actual present situation in Maltese Secondary Schools regarding the inclusion of sketch-books in Art lessons. The findings indicate that though the art teachers believe in the use of the sketch-book, still they're not encouraging enough its attitude, which is also confirmed by the students' unawareness of this research tool Recommendations for effective art teaching in Maltese Secondary Schools, are provided through various proposals and lesson plans, targeted specifically at the inclusion of the sketch-book. Several advantages of the sketch-book are discussed especially in how it promotes fairer ways of Art Assessment and Evaluation processes both for the development of the teachers' pedagogy and for the students' learning. The study emphasises the importance of the sketch-book attitude in Art lessons, which offers students the opportunity to perform as independent learners.