Visual art classes pre-covid-19 were one of the most popular electives offered at Marshfield High School. Art teacher Heidi Ositis, like many other educators, had to transition her art classes to a virtual curriculum.
“Honestly, I appreciate the rigor in the online program,” said Ositis. “I think some of the explanations are really good. But I also feel like the online program is one dimensional. If you like to study art, this is great. If you like to make art, this sucks. I like doing both so it’s nice, but I really want to be making art. But there is still information that can be learned.”
The art program is using an online curriculum called Edgenuity. Edgenuity is a standard-aligned, video-based platform for K-12 students. The curriculum objective is to meet each student where they are, and provide them with the tools they need to catch up, stay on pace or get ahead. This platform is being mixed with students going to bi-weekly Google Meets, for in-person instruction.
“During the google meet, we go through the Edgenuity lesson,” said Ositis. “Starting with the instructional video, vocabulary, online content, journal, practice and the quiz, I would like to start an online gallery so students, in art or not, can share their work.”
While making art is on pause ninth grader London Lindsey is taking their first art class in an online format.
“I joined art because I myself am an artist, and I wanted to have more knowledge in different artist techniques, anatomy, color theory, and everyday artist terms,” said Lindsey. “It is difficult doing art online because I am more of a hands-on learner, and we haven’t been able to create any physical pieces.I love going to the meet because of how chill and welcoming the class is. The assignments aren’t stressful, and the teacher is really good at explaining things.”
According to both Lindsey and Ositis, they miss the in-class portion of school.
“I don’t have any students in person so the art room is lonely,” Ositis said. “I feel like I am just talking to myself. I also don’t like teaching the history, social studies and English side of art, instead of the actual creative activity of making art.”
