Presentation Schedule
Tacit Pedagogies in Foundational Art Education: A Cross-Cultural Comparison of US and Chinese Approaches in Drawing, 2D, and 3D Design (100798)
Session Chair: Ying Chen
Sunday, 4 January 2026 10:45
Session: Session 1 (Parallel)
Room: Hawaii Convention Center: Room 305B
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
This study conducts a comparative analysis of foundational visual art pedagogy—specifically Drawing I/II, 2D Design, and 3D Design—across US and Chinese higher education institutions. It examines how tacit instructional practices, a dimension frequently overlooked in cross-cultural scholarship, shape divergent student creative outcomes. Through systematic analysis of student projects, syllabi, and studio observations, we identify critical pedagogical distinctions: US pedagogy prioritizes conceptual exploration and individual artistic agency, yet often underemphasizes societal contextualization and the relationship between technical discipline and broader cultural discourse. Chinese pedagogy emphasizes technical precision and experimental execution, but marginalizes historical/industrial contextualization and critical engagement with art-historical frameworks. Notably, instructors' backgrounds in fine arts (vs. design practice) in both systems may limit exposure to industry-applicable methodologies. Studio critiques further reveal epistemological contrasts: US instructors privilege intentionality (e.g., "Explain your choices"), while Chinese educators focus on formal correction (e.g., "Adjust this imbalance"). Material approaches in 2D/3D projects highlight divergent values—conceptual materiality (US) versus technical mastery (China). We argue these unspoken pedagogical norms prewire students' creative identities. The study urges intentional recalibration of foundational training to foster globally adaptable artists/designers equipped with both conceptual agency and technical rigor. Finally, we note the impending influence of AI-driven tools as a catalyst for pedagogical evolution, warranting future research on technology’s role in bridging these cross-cultural divides.
Authors:
Ying Chen, University of Wisconsin, United States
About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Ying (Sophie) Chen currently teaches in the School of Art and Design at the University of Wisconsin, Stout.
See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule
Conference Comments & Feedback
Place a comment using your LinkedIn profile[wplinkpress_comments]
Share this Presentation
