As an art educator, I've found that data collection in the classroom can be a game-changer. It provides valuable insights and informs instruction in ways that truly benefit our students. One of the most effective methods I've used involves pre- and post-assessment data to demonstrate student growth.

​In my art room, I often begin with a simple yet telling pre-test: I ask my students to draw a portrait. This initial assessment helps me gauge their existing knowledge and identify areas where they might be struggling. Throughout the unit, I guide them on key concepts like proportion and the use of value. At the end of the unit, they draw another portrait as a post-test. This process not only highlights their growth but also boosts their confidence as they see tangible improvements in their work.

​While tracking student growth through these assessments is essential, I've discovered that assessing students' social and emotional learning (SEL) can be equally, if not more, beneficial. Art has a unique way of helping students express themselves and build confidence. By implementing SEL assessments, we can gain deeper insights into how our students feel about themselves and their work.

Implementing SEL surveys doesn't have to be time-consuming. A short and simple survey can effectively gauge how students feel about themselves and the class. For example, I created a fun, interactive booklet that students can personalize. The booklet design is a one-sheet foldable that opens up to reveal questions, making it engaging for students to complete.

When developing your SEL survey, think about what you want to learn from your students. For a summer arts program, I asked questions like: How do you feel? What do you wish you could do? What are you proud of? These questions were designed to be assessed at both the beginning and the end of the program, helping to measure changes in students' attitudes and confidence.

It's important to create age-appropriate assessments. For younger students, I used fewer words and provided spaces to circle symbols or draw. For older students, I designed a version where they could write out their responses. You know your students best, so tailor your questions to fit their needs and developmental levels.

The real power of these assessments comes from reviewing the data. Keep your questions short and focused, and schedule time to go through the responses. Look for common themes and standout answers. This review process will inform your instruction and help create a positive learning environment.
Example Questions

• Today I feel... (Excited, Tired, Nervous)
• I wish I could... (Improve my drawing/painting skills, Have more time to work, Work by myself instead of in a group)
• I'm proud of... (My drawing skills, How our group worked together, My effort to make new friends)

After collecting your pre-assessment data, use it to tailor your instruction. At the end of the term, distribute a post-test and compare the results. Reflect on how the responses have changed and think about how you can continue to improve next term.

If you're interested in implementing SEL surveys in your art classroom, you may download my booklet designs for free here.

​What types of assessments work best for your students? What projects do you use to specifically address SEL? Share your experiences and let's learn from each other!

Summer is the perfect time for educators to prioritize self-care, create art, and find inspiration in a good book. With the school year behind you, now you can explore new books for yourself and/or your classroom!

Artist and educator, Paula Liz’s book, “Be a Creative Changemaker” provides several project ideas inspired by the life stories of artists from around the world.

Classroom Application: Use these project ideas to enhance your curriculum with a more diverse representation of artists.

“If You Are an Artist” by Meg Auchenbach follows a band of young artists and encourages readers to believe in themselves and cultivate their creativity to make the world a better place.

Classroom Application: Use Auchenbach’s illustrations about color to encourage students to create similar collections of objects and figures.

"An Artist Once Said: An Inspiration Book" offers insights from Kahlo, Warhol, and Dali. Let their words inspire your creativity this summer!

Classroom Application: share artist quotes for discussions and drawing prompts.

"Speaking Out: Queer Youth in Focus" amplifies the voices of LGBTQ+ youth through poignant portraits.

Classroom Application: encourage empathy and understanding through art.

"The People You May See" celebrates diversity through vibrant illustrations and storytelling.

Classroom Application: Use these illustrations to cultivate inclusivity in the classroom.

Author Simon Sinek explains the importance of knowing why we do what we do in his popular TED video. In "Start with Why", he takes the concept even further.

Classroom Application: Use this as inspiration to write your mission statement. Share your why with students. Ask them to write/create an art piece focused on their mission statements.

Enjoy your summer break and embrace the opportunity to be inspired away from the classroom.

What's on your summer reading list?
How do you curate your classroom library?

Share your thoughts and recommendations – after all, the joy of reading is best when shared!