Abstract |
This dissertation examined how an innovative type of activities called "aesthetic flow activities" affect first graders’ engagement in the Modern Greek language course. These activities were designed on the basis of two theoretical orientations, the theory of flow experiences and the theory of arts integration and were used to compare with current curriculum activities. Αll designed to conform to the same academic goals, but different characteristics: For example experimental activities involved situations of increased interest, holistic engagement, controlled by the subjects themselves and experienced as self-autotelic and creative. The target population was 220 primary school students in the prefecture of Attica and the prefecture of Messinia. The sample was separated into experimental and control groups. The data were collected through participant observation method, were recorded and collected in specially structured diaries and observation lists. In addition, the children filled in a five-scale smileyometer, so that they could register their level of satisfaction in participating. From the analysis of the data there were indications that ‘aesthetic flow activities’ can raise students’ engagement in the Modern Greek language course. In particular, it appears that ‘aesthetic flow activities’ affected specific factors of students’ engagement. The children of the experimental groups showed increased verbal participation in the teaching process, while engaged in the subjects in multiple modes, compared to the children of the control groups. In addition, it was observed that the participants of the experimental group responded more creatively to the teaching process, and they activated in a multifaceted/holistic manner during the lesson. At the same time, participants in ‘aesthetic flow activities’ focused in both academic and aesthetic components of the subjects taught, and reported higher levels of satisfaction than those of the control groups. These elements show a positive perspective for children’s spontaneous and deep engagement in teaching processes, through alternative teaching approaches in which “art integration” is used, as well as “flow experiences”.
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