Implementation of the Successful Education Action: Dialogic Art Gathering at the Malta School of Art

As part of an E Twinning project between the MAVC – Malta School of Art  and I.E.S Alfonso II School in Oviedo – Spain, in April 2021, 7 Art tutors from the School of Art received online training on the theoretical framework, scientific base and implementation strategies about the Dialogic Art Gatherings. 

Following this online training, the MAVC-School of Art embarked on a period of implementation and try-outs. During the month of May, the method was implemented during lessons in 5 classes at MQF level 3. The Dialogic Art Gathering was implemented a number of times in the same class.  

Art work of international acclaim that would support the achievement of the learning outcomes of the planned lesson, were chosen by the tutor or the students themselves through a voting system. The image of the art work chosen would be sent to the students prior to the session to give them ample time to observe the work and examine the feelings, emotions and thoughts that the particular work evokes. During the gathering, students discussed their perception and understanding of the work, as the tutor acts as the moderator, grants speaking turns to each person who wants to intervene. Reflecting the democratic and egalitarian spirit of these Dialogic Gatherings, students also took turn to be moderators themselves in some of the sessions. 

Overall, the implementation was a successful one, giving space to students to think creatively and critically about art works, share ideas and thoughts, build more confidence in talking about art in front of others and supporting students who usually find it harder to communicate, to participate more during the discussions.