Date of Award
Spring 5-31-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Education
First Advisor
Shana Cinquemani
Second Advisor
Caitlin Black
Abstract
This thesis investigates the ways that alternative arts approaches such as
Teaching for Artistic Behavior, creative inquiry, and play based learning can
be incorporated into a contemporary arts based curriculum in the museum
setting. In addition to this, it looks closely at the significance of the museum
space and community in these learning encounters. The methodology included a
preliminary case study and teacher based research, which were completed with
the School & Teacher programs at the RISD museum. The qualitative data from
this research consisted of observations, teaching experiences, and reflections in
a visual journal. These findings supported the creation of a resource based on
contemporary art & play in museum spaces in the form of a guided sketchbook
for self-guided school tours, where students are supported through inquiry based
on themes that can be found in artworks throughout the museum. Students are
able to choose the artworks that interest them, investigate them further, and
respond to an artmaking prompt reflecting on a related personal experience.
This research contributes to the discourse on how implementing alternative arts
approaches to learning spaces supports student engagement and inquiry.
Recommended Citation
Meagher, Claire, "Playing With Ideas: A Museum-Based Inquiry" (2025). Masters Theses. 1356.
https://digitalcommons.risd.edu/masterstheses/1356
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