Technology Use

Written By Stacie Brown

Technology Use: Enhancing Creativity and Responsibility

Technology is an important tool in my art classroom, providing students with new ways to create, experiment, and share their work. Clear expectations ensure that technology is used responsibly and purposefully.

Technology as a Creative Tool:

  • Students will regularly use digital art programs, design software, and multimedia tools to enhance their creative expression.

  • Technology may be used for:

    • Digital illustration and design (e.g., Canva, Sketchbook Pro, Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator).

    • Stop-motion animation and video projects (e.g., Stop Motion Studio, OBS Studio, CapCut, Voicemod V3).

    • Photo documentation and portfolio building to track project progress.

  • Students will be encouraged to explore how digital and traditional media can be combined to create mixed-media works.

Responsible Technology Use:

  • Devices are to be used for art-related tasks only during class time.

  • Headphones are allowed during independent work sessions (if appropriate), but students must be able to hear instructions and class announcements.

  • Any misuse of technology, such as off-task browsing or inappropriate content, will result in restricted access or further disciplinary action.

Digital Portfolio and Submission:

  • Students will maintain a digital portfolio through Canvas or another platform to showcase their projects, reflect on their growth, and submit final works.

  • Clear instructions for file naming conventions, formatting, and submission deadlines will be provided.

Technology-Free Time:

  • While technology is a valuable creative tool, it’s also important to balance it with hands-on experiences.

  • Designated tech-free days will focus on traditional artmaking, sketching, or sculpting to encourage tactile exploration and break from screens.

Art-Related Research and Digital Collaboration

Technology will be used not only as a creative tool but also as a means for research, collaboration, and expanding artistic knowledge.

Art Research and Exploration:

  • Students will use technology to research historical and contemporary artists, movements, and techniques.

  • Guided research projects may include:

    • Exploring the work of diverse artists and discussing their impact.

    • Analyzing specific styles or techniques to inform their own creative process.

    • Investigating how art reflects or shapes cultural and social issues.

  • Students will be encouraged to critically evaluate online sources for credibility and accuracy.

Digital Collaboration and Peer Feedback:

  • Students will occasionally collaborate on digital projects, combining their skills in design, video editing, or digital illustration.

  • Platforms such as Canvas discussion boards, shared digital sketchbooks, or collaborative design platforms will be used for group work.

  • Peer feedback sessions may include:

    • Online critiques where students provide written feedback on each other’s digital or traditional works.

    • Collaborative brainstorming sessions for concept development.

    • Sharing process videos or time-lapse clips of their work to foster dialogue about technique and approach.

Exposure to Professional Art Practices:

  • Students will be introduced to industry-relevant digital tools used by professional artists and designers.

  • Demonstrations on portfolio building, digital presentation, and online art marketing will prepare students for future creative opportunities.

  • When possible, virtual gallery tours or artist interviews will be incorporated to expose students to current trends and real-world applications.

Art-Related Research and Digital Collaboration

  • Students will engage in artist studies, historical research, and contemporary art exploration using approved online resources.

  • Research assignments may include:

    • Exploring different art movements and their cultural impact.

    • Investigating the work of specific artists for inspiration and technique analysis.

    • Researching careers in the arts, including digital media, animation, game design, and more.

  • Proper digital citizenship will be emphasized, including how to credit sources, respect copyright laws, and responsibly use reference images.

Collaboration and Peer Feedback

  • Students may participate in online discussion boards, shared critiques, and collaborative projects through platforms like Canvas, Google Drive, or Padlet.

  • Group projects may involve:

    • Collaborative digital artworks where students contribute elements to a shared piece.

    • Virtual gallery showcases where students present their work and provide peer feedback.

    • Cross-classroom or community collaborations with artists, designers, or other schools.

  • Respectful and constructive digital communication will be expected in all collaborative spaces.

Stacie Brown
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