NAEA Position Statement on Assessment in the Visual Arts Classroom

NAEA recognizes the importance of developmentally appropriate assessments in the visual arts. Effective assessment is a continuous process that is directly linked to instructional goals, objectives, and performance expectations.

Assessment is the primary means of measuring learner knowledge, skills, and critical thinking in the visual arts. Visual arts, design, and media arts assessment provides ongoing and instructive feedback for supporting learner growth. Assessment strategies often include methods that involve learner reflection and evaluation on the creative process and the final product. When proactively shared with learners, assessment criteria enable visual arts educators to communicate goals for growth and creative development. Educators who make informed decisions based on formative and summative assessments are better able to plan and improve instructional practice to meet the needs of all learners.

Resources

To view the Model Cornerstone Assessments developed along with the National Visual Arts and Media Arts Standards for Grades 2, 5, 8, proficient, accomplished, and advanced levels for high school, go to www.nationalvisualartsstandards.org.

Sickler-Voigt, D. C. (2020). Teaching and learning in art education: Cultivating students’ potential from pre-K through high school. Routledge.