Aesthetic Positive Pedagogy Explained

In this chapter, we provide an in-depth explanation of Aesthetic Positive Pedagogy and the unique contribution it can make to the many challenges facing education. The chapter begins with a reflective invitation for the reader to consider why they chose teaching as a profession as well as how they currently feel as a teacher. We then discuss the notion of aesthetic experience and how it can contribute powerfully to transformative learning. Questions such as the following are explored: How do you find the wow moment or awe through aesthetic experience? How can it then transform you, your work, your students? How do you draw a learner into a memory of an aesthetic experience? How do these moments make us more empathetic towards others? A framework for APP is then explored, supported by illustrative examples of APP in action. These collectively demonstrate a student-centred approach to learning that embeds problem-based learning, sensorial engagement, positive language and arts-based techniques to cultivate a learning culture that is engaging, positive and wellbeing focused. The benefits of APP are explored, followed by insights into how this approach aligns with curriculum and key education documents such as the UNESCO roadmap for arts education.