Influence Of iPads On The Arts

How do students use iPads inside of the art rooms? The Talon investigates.

iPads have swept through Christian Brothers this year, affecting every class — even art classes. But how can an electronic tablet change ancient art traditions? The Talon delved into CB’s artistic side to find out.

“iPads are a tool to learn from at home,” ceramics instructor, Mr. Rob Boriskin, informed the Talon.

In the ceramics class, iPads are never used inside of the classroom — they are left in the students backpacks to ensure no damage occurs. Instead, Mr. Boriskin runs a “flipped classroom” where all lectures, homework, and other handouts are read and completed at home then submitted with the iPad. This allows class time to be spent working with clay, not using the iPad, so the iPads do not distract from  artwork.

The iPads improve CB’s art program in many other ways, reveals art instructor Mr. Findlay Macintosh

“iPads are a wonderful tool to bring (students) to the next level” an enthusiastic Mr. Macintosh says.

iPad are used in the classroom to find images students wish to draw. Examples of artwork techniques can be found online with the iPad when students are having trouble finding inspiration. Advanced drawing students use apps to draw still life portraits , aiding their process and increasing their learning incredibly.

“Before [students] could take a picture on their phones of a still life, but the picture would be as small as a postage stamp,” he said. “Now — BAM — it’s a nice big picture and the still lifes are better.”

Students are embracing the use of iPads in their art classes, although they at times can struggle with the device.

“The iPad is a useful tool for finding pictures to draw, but I can be distracted by the games on it at times” honest junior Jordan Sasano (’15) admits.

Overall, the iPads are making a very positive impact on the art program at Christian Brothers. However, as with any electronic device, responsibility and self control are necessary in order to stay on task.