Li-Yan Wang

Art Classes in a Historical House: University and Elementary Collaboration for Creative Community Engagement

Li-Yan Wang – National Changhua University of Education (Art Department), Changhua City, Taiwan

Abstract:

How can we enable university students new to art education to grasp major theories, gain practical experience, and explore diverse approaches to teaching art? How can we use community resources to enrich the curriculum and offer elementary students engaging, meaningful learning experiences? This presentation describes a six-year collaboration (2018–2024) between university faculty and elementary school teachers aimed at achieving these goals. In an 18-week introductory art education course, university students explored online resources, debated the importance of art education within and beyond school settings, and studied theories including child-centred, discipline-based, interdisciplinary, visual culture, and multicultural art education. Working in groups, they developed lesson plans and taught art to elementary students, applying their learning in community contexts. The course took place in a unique setting – a 1920s Japanese-style house – providing university students with a space to bridge theory with practice, connect art with history, and engage with the community. This environment also allowed elementary students to experience art outside the traditional classroom in a place rich with local history, deepening their learning. Over years of collaboration, various lesson plans emerged, with elements documented in short videos. The long-term partnership tested the team’s adaptability, particularly in response to weather and pandemic challenges. This presentation shares the project’s origins, teaching venue, and curriculum planning, analyses developed lesson plans and presents insights from teachers and students. It highlights how a place-based university-elementary school collaboration fosters a mutually beneficial, “win-win” educational experience for all involved.