Technology has become foundational to today’s classroom instruction — with the use of devices, software, apps and other digital resources prominent from elementary school through higher education.
For art educators especially, a variety of innovative classroom technology tools can foster creativity, collaboration and engagement among students. The key, of course, is knowing how to choose the best tools for your classroom and implement them successfully.
Where do you begin when it comes to incorporating digital art tools and other tech resources into the contemporary art classroom? Below, we outline essential art education tools and techniques as well as practical tips and best practices for using them successfully in your own teaching.
The Impact of Technology on Art Education
Before delving into some of the most useful tools for integrating technology into the art classroom, it’s crucial to understand the influence and potential benefits of using these technologies along with the evolution of art education thus far.
Why Integrate Technology in Art Education?
There are numerous compelling reasons to use digital tools and other technologies in an art classroom. For starters, tech tools can help students explore new ways to create art easily and without the need for physical equipment (such as paintbrushes or other materials). Likewise, many digital art creation tools allow students to create one-of-a-kind art without leaving a mess behind and with the added ability to “undo” any mistakes as they work. This, in turn, can make the creative process more enjoyable for some while boosting confidence and self-esteem.
Additionally, technology in the form of visual art exhibitions and art education software makes learning experiences more accessible to all learners. For example, a virtual art exhibition can make it possible for students to experience art in the form of a digital “field trip” that might not otherwise be feasible from a cost and logistics perspective.
All of this, combined with opportunities for increased collaboration and engagement, makes the use of technology in the art classroom beneficial across a wide range of age levels, backgrounds and artistic abilities.
The Evolution of Art Education
Art education has come a long way over the years, from its beginnings in the Middle Ages to a major shift during the Renaissance, where formal art academies and guilds first began to form. Throughout the 20th century, art education took off as art itself became more accessible and was adopted as part of general education in many public schools.
Over the past few decades, advancements in technology have made art education more accessible than ever before. Not only are there more digital art tools available to help students create, but art education software has also made it possible to teach virtual art classes entirely online.
Essential Tools for Integrating Technology in Art Education
It’s no secret that the use of technology in the art classroom has significantly changed both the way students create and how educators teach. So, what are some of the best tools for incorporating more technology into art education in a way that is most beneficial to students and teachers alike?
Digital Drawing and Painting Tools
There are plenty of digital drawing and painting tools on the market today, ranging from relatively simplistic and free tools to robust programs with more complex features. These kinds of programs and apps are ideal for use in the art classroom; not only do they allow students to experiment with different types of mediums and transformation techniques that can make creation fun and engaging, but they also can help build painting skills in both conventional and digital formats.
Just a few examples of digital drawing, painting and editing tools to consider for your classroom include:
- Adobe Photoshop
- Photoshop Express
- Procreate
- GIMP
- ArtRage
3D Modeling and Animation Software
These days, many students are interested in learning 3D modeling and animation skills, particularly as they can be applied to character and video game design. 3D modeling and animation software can be especially useful in transforming students’ ideas into eye-catching visuals.
There are plenty of options to choose from that can vary widely in terms of cost, features and user-friendliness. However, some of the top 3D modeling and animation software programs out there include:
- Unreal Engine
- Mixamo
- Cinema 4D
- Move.ai
Interactive Whiteboards and Tablets
Another way in which using technology in the art classroom can be beneficial is by fostering increased collaboration and engagement among students. Specifically, using tools such as tablets and interactive whiteboards in art class makes it easier than ever for students to share their digital work with others. Interactive whiteboards are valuable for educators when demonstrating new techniques or even explaining to students how to use certain software programs or apps.
Techniques for Integrating Technology Into the Art Curriculum
There’s much to keep in mind when it comes to selecting the right tools to use in a digital art curriculum and incorporating them into your own teaching. With some techniques and best practices in mind, however, educators can set themselves and their students up for success.
Blending Traditional and Digital Art
One way to engage students in technology use is to leverage it as a means of blending forms of traditional art with contemporary digital art. For instance, many art educators find success in tasking students to take a traditional piece of art, digitize it and transform it using digital editing platforms and creation tools. This can be an ideal way for students to learn more about the intersection between what is considered “traditional” art media and digital art.
Collaborative Projects Using Technology
In addition, technology enables students to collaborate on art pieces more than ever before, even if they’re not necessarily in the same classroom or able to meet face-to-face. Using digital art platforms, students can participate in collaborative art projects online and work together to create one-of-a-kind pieces. This can be an exciting way for students to hone valuable communication and collaboration skills as growing artists.
Virtual Art Exhibits and Portfolios
Incorporating technology into the art classroom can also help make art more accessible to all students. For example, many teachers can use art education software to expose students to virtual art exhibitions, where they can view and interact with famous pieces of art and never even have to leave the classroom.
Meanwhile, digital art tools enable students to build their own portfolios that can be housed online and added to for years to come. This is a way for students to preserve and showcase some of their best work, which could be useful when it comes time for them to apply for college art programs or other future opportunities.
Overcoming Challenges in Technology Integration
While there is great potential behind technology in art education, there are also some notable obstacles art educators and administrators may need to overcome.
Addressing the Learning Curve
Not all students have the same abilities or understanding of technology usage in academia. Teachers should never assume that students will be able to use any technology without at least a little formal instruction and demonstration, so it’s critical to set time aside for this in the classroom.
Ensuring Accessibility and Inclusion
Another potential issue regarding the use of technology in art education is accessibility. Students from around the world do not have the same access to technology, including the internet or physical devices (such as computers and tablets). Educators and administrators alike should keep inclusion and accessibility issues in mind when incorporating technology as part of an art curriculum, ensuring that all students have access to the tools they need to succeed.
The Future of Technology in Art Education
Only time will tell what the future of technology in art education will look like, but there are some emerging trends and technologies that we are already beginning to see.
Emerging Technologies in Art Education
Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) are proving their potential in art education. Leveraging AI tools, students can gain valuable inspiration and even create one-of-a-kind art pieces in just a few clicks. Meanwhile, augmented and virtual reality is making it possible for students to truly immerse themselves and experience art in new and exciting ways.
Preparing Students for the Digital Art World
As technology becomes more commonplace in the art classroom, educators have an increased obligation to prepare students for what the future may hold. Although there is certainly still a need for “traditional” artists, there is also a growing need for digital artists who can use the latest tools and technologies to create 3D models, animations and other forms of less traditional art. Educators, then, are tasked with striking a balance between teaching conventional forms of art and more modern, digitized artistic techniques in their classrooms.
Learn More in an Art Education Program
Whether you consider yourself a tech guru or are a bit more hesitant to try out new technologies, knowing how to leverage the best digital art platforms and classroom technology tools is a must when you’re an educator. With a better understanding of the growing role of technology in art education and how to utilize art education apps and other resources to your classroom’s benefit, you can unleash every student’s creativity.
Interested in learning more about art education in the K-12 classroom? Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education can be an excellent starting point for aspiring art teachers who want to make a difference in the lives of students. Plus, this program is offered both online and on-campus to suit your unique learning style. Get in touch to learn more about RMCAD’s art education programs, or get started with your online application today.
