Visual Understanding in Education (VUE)

Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) is a research-based teaching method that improves critical thinking and language skills through discussions of visual images. VTS encourages participation and self-confidence, especially among students who struggle. VTS is easy to learn and offers a proven strategy for educators to meet current learning objectives. The skills required for success in higher education and 21st-century jobs require different approaches to teaching. A senior VTS facilitator will train participants at the CALTA21 Professional Development Institute participants and provide them with the teaching and learning strategies that will strengthen students’ literacy and critical thinking skills and increase their academic achievement. VTS is used as the pedagogy for CALTA21. Its methodology is specifically applicable to adult English Language learners and to diverse museum collections, facilitating national replicability, dissemination and sustainability.