a key pedagogical method
In the arts, open-ended explorations represent a key pedagogical method. By their nature, open-ended tasks invite interpretation and innovative ways of working with the material presented: design a Mad Hatter’s hat to express what you’re mad about. There is not one solution to an open-ended challenge, but many. This is not to suggest that anything goes. Solutions are still subject to being critically scrutinised within the context of their intention and execution within set criteria. This type of learning demands application of creative and flexible thinking – skills that are increasingly valued in our rapidly changing world. An authentic arts education program can provide children with opportunities to develop their fluency with ways of working that support flexible thinking and creative behaviours such as problem-solving.
