1. Artful thinking for seniors
Using art as a learning tool

2. HELLENIC ADULT EDUCATION ASSOSIASION

3. Learning through Aesthetic Experience
Supporting adult learner’s creativity and critical thinking through the systematic exploration of art

4. the development of the cognitive and the imaginative processes as well
as well as..
the development of the cognitive and the imaginative processes as well

5. The method
Based on Perkins Project Zero of the University of Harvard involving the systematic observation of artworks
And the works of Freire, Dewey, Gardner and so on…

6. All you need is a work of art (best chosen by the group)…
…and a question (disorientating dilemma)
All teaching subjects – by any teacher
Not about technical elements, but to finding their meaning using your own thoughts and experiences

7. Why Art? Art is a universal language
It engages learners - enhances participation and group communication
There is no “right” or “wrong” - Builds self esteem and positive self image
Helps thinking outside the box - develops new ways of thinking/ getting around stereotypes
Gives the brain a good mental challenge!
Art is fun!
/plasticity of the brain

8. What kind of art?
Any kind!
fine arts
films
theatre
literature
music

9. Are seniors capable of learning?

10. First step - observation questions
What do you see?
What is his story?
What contrasts do you see?
Is there something that surprises you or puzzles you?
What feelings does this painting create for you?
(Let your eye work for you.
Be generous with your looking time)

11. Second step - analytical questions
Try to describe the situation from the perspective of the older man.
What could the older man’s assets be?
What are his expectations?
What are his fears?
How could a learning programme help the man you see?

12. Third step – taking it to bigger scale
What skills, knowledge and literacies are required for active ageing?
How can you facilitate empowerment and independency?

13. Fourth step - Reviewing the process
Remember the process.
Re-experience review and reflect on what have discovered.

14. For more information…