The use of an open and distance learning modality in the delivery of the visual and performing arts curriculum with special focus on the magnet/specialist programmes in Trinidad and Tobago

Ainsworth A. Ovid
Ministry of Education, Trinidad and Tobago

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     Last modified: September 29, 2006
     Presentation date: 11/02/2006 2:30 PM in ST Windsor A
     (View Schedule)

Abstract
The Visual and Performing Arts is a relatively new subject on the Secondary School curriculum in Trinidad and Tobago, It encompasses the disciplines of Music, Dance, Drama and Visual Arts. Students of forms I-III are expected to participate in at least two of the four disciplines given the availability of teachers in all of the disciplines. At the Form IV level students choose one of the four disciplines for examinations at Form V. The Visual and Performing Arts Magnet/Specialist programmes however allow students to “specialize” through enhanced programmes that involve the acquisition of expertise and additional certification in addition to that provided by the traditional form V examinations. These programmes are expected to be underpinned by the extensive use of ICTs in their development and delivery.

Secondary schools in Trinidad and Tobago have access to a range of technologies that would facilitate open and distance learning approaches.

This paper seeks to present to teachers a model for the delivery of the curriculum using open and distance learning approaches to:

provide wide ranging resources through the use of the Internet;
use Internet research as a tool in the development and preparation of lesson plans;
promote group activity through cooperative and collaborative learning;
facilitate student independence through the development of problem solving and critical thinking skills;
develop skills in preparing online portfolios;
use asynchronous and synchronous tools to promote collaboration and exchange between teachers and between students in the promotion of best practices; and
provide value added contents to students of the magnet/specialist programmes that may result in additional competencies and certification.