Arts and crafts in context

This course highlights contemporary theories and concepts within the field of arts and crafts, linking them to teaching practices, disciplinary traditions, and research. Through a broad theoretical approach, the course explores the opportunities the subject offers for pupils, teachers, and school leadership across diverse contexts and within interdisciplinary perspectives. It presents a historical and political backdrop for the subject of arts and crafts and for the teacher’s professional practice, and may provide a foundation for a deeper subject-didactic understanding. Through critical reflection and dialogue, the course seeks to contribute to a solid foundation for the exercise of the teaching profession and to strengthen the arguments for the position of arts and crafts in schools and society.

Knowledge

The student

• has broad knowledge of various art and craft practices in a variety of contexts
• has in-depth knowledge of art and craft didactics as subject, research and professional fields
• has knowledge art and craft issues based on the subject's history, traditions, uniqueness and place in society
• has broad knowledge of theoretical perspectives on the interdisciplinary practical-aesthetic field

Skills

The student

• can reflect independently and critically on various ideas about art and craft teaching and learning, as well as analyze and discuss art and craft didactic issues
• can analyze current theories within the field and work independently with practical and theoretical problem solving
• can reflect on diversity and different ethical perspectives in the aesthetic field

General competence

The student

• has an understanding of and is able to critically assess connections between traditions and ideologies in art and craft educational practice
• can contribute to innovation processes within the subject
• can communicate with different target groups about issues, analyzes and conclusions within the interdisciplinary practical-aesthetic field

The learning methods in the course encompass both theoretical and practical dimensions. To achieve a deeper understanding of the topics addressed, theory and practice are integrated through action, dialogue, and critical reflection.

Course activities include lectures, workshops, excursions, supervision, and peer feedback. The teaching is consistently characterized by a high degree of student-active learning.