Art as a vehicle for inclusion and learning

This course is organized in cooperation with the Malta School of Arts, situated in Valletta. In the course, we will make a “journey” through the paths of creativity and practical tasks. We also will have some input on artistic and inclusive approaches, and will attend practical work shops. Above all, we’ll explore how we can use the creative process and art as a mean of learning and inclusion, revealing countless situations and evidence.

We dare to say that “all schools should be art schools…”, not in the sense that all schools will prepare artists, but in the sense that the methods used in art schools lead us to a constant search and questioning that enriches and makes us passionate about discovering knowledge. It involves the teacher and the students actively in the learning process.

On the other hand, artistic production also leads us to accept different points of view. Thus, using art and the creative process can be seen, as a strong way of acceptance and affirmation of the individual who often finds his “voice” only in art…! In a situation of exclusion, arts and creative processes have their utmost importance.

The teacher’s role is guided by a proactive approach in each moment of the students’ lives, leading them to become agents of change in a society that is in constant transformation. Arts will help to stimulate the curiosity and sense of cultural belonging. And the creative process will certainly enhance the individual’s discovery, contributing to an emotional balance of the student.

When schools are open to the diversity of the community, its evolutions and allow the sharing of knowledge in a constant learning process, they will encourage true inclusion and citizenship. This can contribute to the acceptance of diversity.