Survey of Art Programs and Art Experiences for the Mentally Retarded in Indiana

Abstract

This study surveyed the current status of art programs for retarded students in Indiana. It attempted to ascertain what classroom and art teachers of retarded students perceived to be their needs and problems in teaching art; what they value in art, what their objectives are, how they perceive the effect of art experiences on the behavior patterns of students and whether they feel prepared to teach art. Results indicate a need for more art training for classroom teachers and more knowledge of exceptional children for art teachers. However, the greatest need seems to be for more effective art programs designed specifically to meet the needs of exceptional students.