Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) is an innovative educational approach that fosters critical thinking, communication, and engagement through the observation and discussion of visual art. At its core, VTS encourages participants to engage deeply with artworks, cultivating skills that are not only valuable in the arts but also applicable across various fields and contexts.
Cocreated in New York (USA) during the late 1980’s by Philip Yenawine and Abigail Housen (Ed.D. Harvard Graduate School of Education), the VTS process involves a structured dialogue facilitated by an educator or facilitator. Participants are guided to closely observe an artwork, share their thoughts and interpretations, and build on one another’s ideas. This collaborative discussion creates an inclusive learning environment where diverse perspectives are valued, fostering a sense of community and shared inquiry. The approach is particularly effective in promoting critical thinking and visual literacy, essential skills in today’s visually-oriented world.
VTS is highly relevant for schools, galleries, museums, and corporate settings. In educational contexts, it enhances students’ engagement with art, allowing them to develop their analytical and interpretive skills while deepening their appreciation for visual culture. In museums and galleries, VTS serves as a powerful tool for educators to connect with visitors, transforming passive viewing into active learning. By facilitating discussions around artworks, museums can create meaningful connections between visitors and the art on display, enriching the overall experience.
Research supporting VTS underscores its effectiveness in fostering critical thinking and improving communication skills among participants. Studies have shown that students who engage with VTS not only develop a deeper understanding of art but also enhance their ability to articulate their thoughts and ideas. This methodology empowers individuals to express their interpretations confidently, contributing to a culture of dialogue and respect for diverse viewpoints.
Christine’s dedication to Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) is clear in her consulting practice, having introduced VTS into Australian contexts in 2012 during her time as Education Manager at Heide Museum of Modern Art. She offers workshops and training sessions that introduce educators and museum staff to the principles and techniques of VTS, equipping them with the skills to implement this approach effectively.
Christine maintains a Pinterest board featuring a variety of images suitable for VTS sessions, providing inspiration and resources for educators looking to integrate this methodology into their work.
Visual Thinking Strategies for Schools
Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) plays a crucial role in helping schools achieve curriculum targets and supports a holistic, whole-school approach to education. By integrating VTS into their classrooms, educators foster critical thinking, visual literacy, and communication skills that align with a broad range of curriculum frameworks. The method encourages students to engage deeply with visual materials, prompting thoughtful discussions and reflective thinking that enhance understanding across subjects, from art and humanities to science and mathematics.
As a whole-school approach, VTS creates a shared language and framework for inquiry, enabling teachers to collaborate more effectively and align their instructional strategies with school-wide goals. This collective commitment to developing students’ observational and interpretive skills not only supports academic achievement but also nurtures a culture of curiosity and creativity throughout the school community. Ultimately, VTS empowers educators to meet curriculum objectives while cultivating essential skills that prepare students for future success in an increasingly visual and interconnected world.
VTS for Corporate Professional Learning
Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) offers significant advantages in corporate professional learning by fostering an engaging and collaborative learning environment that enhances critical thinking and communication skills among employees. By encouraging participants to closely observe and discuss visual art, VTS promotes open dialogue, active listening, and the exchange of diverse perspectives, which are essential for effective teamwork and problem-solving in the workplace.
This approach not only helps employees develop their analytical skills but also cultivates creativity and innovation, as they learn to interpret and express their ideas confidently. Furthermore, VTS can be tailored to address specific organisational goals, making it a versatile tool for enhancing professional development programs. Ultimately, incorporating VTS into corporate training not only enriches employees’ learning experiences but also drives a culture of continuous improvement and engagement within the organisation.
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Dr Christine Healey 