Calum Coutts

1.14 Art in the Additional Support Needs (ASN) Classroom: An Unexpected Territory? (Paper)

Calum Coutts – Riverbrae (ASN) School, Scotland

Abstract:

Due to the wide range of needs in an Additional Support Needs (ASN) classroom it can be challenging to offer something for the whole class while still meeting the needs of the individual. There is also the challenge of supporting pupils who struggle with transitions, anxiety, stress, a fear of public places and unpredictability. Art is the perfect subject to support pupils with additional support needs due to its accessibility, creative problem solving, communication and opportunities for self-expression. Art activities allow young people to experience, experiment and play with unfamiliar scenarios and materials supported by trusted members of staff and peers. Through play, we are able to assess risks, reactions and relationships we would then like to explore in a public or community context. Often, there is an assumption that ‘the arts’ are only for people who can draw, paint or perform. However, when we start to explore more contemporary arts education such as ICT, image manipulation, photography, animations, film and video editing it becomes far more accessible as a subject area. Those aspects of the subject are particularly valuable in an ASN environment because they allow for multiple ways of learning. This presentation will explore the potential of film and animation. Students who are able to read and write, provide the text and narrative while others can offer other practical skills like drawings, performance and editing. As an art specialist in ASN education, I have been exploring these multi- media techniques. I will share with congress, examples of lessons in the form of images, video diaries and short films that showcase the benefits of contemporary arts practice within ASN education. The presentation will include animations, music videos and documentaries created by ASN students. I will discuss the various games, activities and techniques used to arrive at the end results.

Art is the perfect subject to support pupils with additional support needs due to its accessibility, creative problem solving, communication and opportunities for self-expression.