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Obstructing The View: An Argument For The Use Of Obstructions In Art Education Pedagogy, Ryan Patton

Journal of Social Theory in Art Education

Through the use of obstructions we can see how a project-based curriculum can promote very different results. The obstructions that Sandy Skoglund gave the colloquium class at Ohio State were not presented as opportunities for play. Although Bickley-Green and Phillips allowed for play in their use of obstructions, the type of play described was prescriptive and limiting. Pitri’s use of play as a form of problem solving that also allows for personal expression advocated in this paper. Clearly identifying obstructions as game-like challenges for students, they can be used for growth and critical awareness.