ARTS-BASED METHODS AS PEDAGOGICAL TOOLS IN THE HEISE PROJECT

In this article, we describe how arts-based methods are used in different stages of the teaching and learning processes in the courses Methodological Competence in Social Care Sector and Creativity and Activity-Based Methods in Client Work for the first year Social Services Bachelor students in Laurea University of Applied Sciences.

This article is part of Erasmus+ Strategic Partnerships funded project called Higher Education Institutions for Societal Engagement (HEISE) which aims at creating an innovative and attractive educational model based on experiential and challenge led learning to increase the higher education institutions’ societal engagement. Arts-based methods were used in the courses to understand different points of view when students and work life partners solved different societal challenges together. During the courses, arts-based methods were taught and used as pedagogical tools in teaching and learning.

The material for this article was collected during the academic years 2016-17 and 2017-18 with four different student groups (N=118) and three senior lecturers. The material consist of the students’ reflections and self-evaluations written at the end of the courses as well as the senior lecturers’ course materials and common reflections during and after each course.

The article describes and analyzes the students’ and teachers’ experiences on how arts-based methods can be used and applied in teaching and learning processes. Arts-based methods used in different stages of the course give teachers a deeper understanding of the students’ capabilities and space for communication and common understanding. Students gain tools to adapt new skills and to reflect their own actions. Using arts-based methods also offers new ways to interpret the surrounding society and the challenges it is currently facing.