This paper examines the role of myths and symbols in society through the use of a hypothetical dialogue. The paper begins by explaining what myths are and the functions they serve. Mythology and mythical symbols of past and present are compared. These changes in the nature of mythological symbols are explored through a dialogue between an artist…

Maintains that an anthropological perspective offers exciting possibilities for developing intercultural understanding in the visual arts. Examines the problems encountered when applying this perspective to the visual art of radically different cultures. (JDH)

Advocates the use of the whole language method in writing instruction to emphasize communication rather than mechanical correctness in writing. Discusses the following whole language techniques: having children see themselves as authors, using predictable books, encouraging inventive spelling, and using and displaying student work. (DMM)

Information graphics or diagrams are two-dimensional maps of relationships that present information. Creators and interpreters of diagrams need to know what makes some diagrams more effective in communicating information. This paper suggests a theoretical framework for diagram classification to make this possible. This framework consists of two…

The central premise of this paper is that there is a group of visual thinking skills which are becoming increasingly foundational and basic to the education of a contemporary citizenry. These skills are becoming more vital as the use of digital imagery increases. The skills are independent of the external technologies (i.e., hardware and software)…

This essay focuses on the process of learning, discussing television viewing and written language in terms of discursive (words) and nondiscursive (art forms) symbolism. Libraries' use of these symbolic forms is also discussed. (EJS)

Contends that to mindfully appreciate the shape a poem carves onto a page is to view its words and lines in relief, to consider how the contours of a poem contribute to its meaning. Explains that the notion of blank space as a defining element of poetry is simple yet radical, and is a subtle challenge to students who define poetry as beautiful…

Addresses two questions that may be unique to perceptual learning: What are the circumstances that produce learning? and What is the content of learning? Suggests a critical principle for each question. Provides a discussion of perceptual learning theory, how learning occurs, and what gets learned. Includes a 121-item bibliography. (DR)

This article analyzes arguments for a written form of American Sign Language (ASL) and suggests the need for empowerment of people who are deaf. It concludes that suggestions to "alphabeticize" ASL or to utilize English glosses would not be appropriate, and proposes that deaf people themselves develop a visual symbol system. (DB)

Visual learning enhances cognitive understanding of abstract concepts. Perception of such ideas as causality is enriched by visual examples. Perceiving should not be separated from thinking. (SK)

Offers three reasons as to why some children encounter difficulty with educational activities involving vision: (1) inability to perceive and hold detail in mind, (2) lack of time given to accomplish task, and (3) introducing too many activities at one time. (MG)

This article seeks to articulate developing trends in art education and practice, locating such movements within the broader cultural contexts of globalization, neoliberal capitalism, and postmodernity. Against this more general synopsis, the autobiographical position of the author as a student and teacher of art will be elucidated as inextricably…

How might comparatists view and image the world as a visual dialogue? How have representations of visual culture in comparative education discourse changed since the 1960s? This paper identifies, types, and maps the scopic regimes of modernity (that is, the technical and critical rationalist, and the hermeneutical constructivist) and postmodernity…

Synectics is an approach to creative thinking that depends on understanding together that which is apparently different. Its main tool is analogy or metaphor. The approach, which is often used by groups, can help students develop creative responses to problem solving, to retain new information, to assist in generating writing, and to explore…

One theoretical model for understanding the visual event suggests that a visual event has both a surface (descriptive) and a deeper (experience) level of understanding. Both levels are needed to comprehend and appreciate images, with each level affecting the other. A person's perspective is an important part of the visual event, which depends upon…