Miller, Laura Alexandra

An Exploration of Assessment Practices in Grade 1 Visual Arts that Ensure Fairness and Foster Growth and Enjoyment

Keywords: Visual Arts, Assessment, Grade 1

Abstract

Visual Arts assessment has been, and continues to be a contentious topic for many educators. Teachers are often unsure of how they should assess Visual Arts and sometimes wonder if assessment in this subject can have a detrimental effect on the young learner. This qualitative research study explores Visual Arts assessment in the Grade 1 classroom and attempts to find ways Grade 1 teachers can assess Visual Arts to ensure fairness, while also fostering continued growth and enjoyment in the subject. Two Grade 1 teachers were interviewed for the purpose of this study. Interviewees were selected, because they were identified by fellow teachers and the school principal as exemplary Grade 1 teachers with an excellent Visual Arts program. Preliminary results from the research suggest Visual Arts is best assessed using a variety of assessment tools and methods, including rubrics, checklists and critiques, and that students benefit from opportunities to self- and peer assess and reflect on their growth over time.

Acknowledgements

I want to take this opportunity to thank my research supervisor, Dr. Susan Schwartz who was extremely supportive and helpful throughout the research process. I also want to thank my family and friends for supporting me, during the course of this research. Finally, I want to thank my interviewees for enthusiastically participating in my study.