VTS - Diversity and Inclusion Pedagogy 

Class Description

This course will prepare students to facilitate art discussions using the VTS (Visual Thinking Strategies) methodology. Through deep listening and responsive moves, VTS fosters collaborative, inclusive, community-building dialogue about art. Used within the framework of diversity and inclusion, VTS has the power to change the way we relate to one another as educators, students, and colleagues.

Participants will: understand the environment of student-centered facilitation; learn the elements of the VTS method; connect diversity and inclusion frameworks to the method of VTS; practice VTS and engage in reflective practice.

Session 1: Community practice, intro to VTS method and history, theoretical underpinnings of methodology (Housen, Vygotsky, Piaget).

Session 2: Diversity and inclusion in education Part 1 (hooks, Adichie), practice with coaching.

Session 3: Diversity and inclusion in education Part 2, practice with coaching.

Session 4: Creating a learner/community-centered environment, practice with coaching.

Session 5: Focus on active listening/paraphrasing, practice with coaching.

Session 6: Focus on framing/linking in paraphrasing, practice with coaching, continuing our learning.