The new state curriculum standard for general education, among other innovations, places significant emphasis on the arts and aesthetic education. Art, technology, and visual arts are the three subjects taught in our school that aim to encourage students’ independent thinking, creativity in generating new ideas, and refinement of self-expression methods.
Through art, children develop the ability to see, appreciate, and create beauty. This not only fosters interest in visual arts but also contributes to the development of general cultural taste. Speaking with usumschool.am about the topic was visual arts teacher Anna Yeritsyan. Addressing the expected learning outcomes of the subject, she noted that each subject is aimed at developing a particular skill in students. For instance, mathematics develops logical thinking, social studies aid students' socialization, and the arts block is focused on developing applied skills and aesthetic taste.
Regarding the most important advantage of the subject, which makes it beloved among students, Anna Yeritsyan emphasized the freedom of creativity.
"Here they can be original, not be afraid of making mistakes, make independent decisions, and define taste—first for themselves, then for others," the teacher said confidently.
Beyond classroom activities, exhibitions and visits to art centers are of great importance, during which schoolteachers often act as tour guides. Speaking about their significance, Yeritsyan noted that such experiences give students the opportunity to bring their individuality to life and gain motivation.
The young teacher considers being involved as a tour guide during such excursions to be a highly valuable personal experience.
"It is definitely much more than the everyday classroom process. Such visits and lessons held in front of original artworks have a unique spirit, which makes the student-art connection more profound and expansive," Anna Yeritsyan concluded our conversation.
To not think freely is to not think at all!
