Recommends using learner-controlled instruction and student sketchbooks in the primary grades as a means of countering institutionalized and standardized expectations of young students' artwork. Maintains that, left to their own devices and gently encouraged, children will produce original, creative, and personal art. Describes examples from a…

Provides an overview of the research literature concerning the development of graphic art skills, relevant instructional methods, and the specific use of visual models as an instructional method. Pertinent findings, relevant methodological issues, and major conclusions are all discussed. Briefly addresses the viewpoints of gestalt and learning…

Examines a visual art program for at-risk students that attempts to increase self-esteem, stimulate inquiry, and develop critical thinking through art criticism and self- expression. Summarizes the responses of 11 at-risk students and 35 general education college students to the question, "What is art?" (MJP)