A Transformative Approach in Malaysian Art Education: Revisiting

Abstract

The concept of holistic education in Malaysia is based on the principles adhered to by the country's National Education Philosophy (NEP), which focuses on the development of well-balanced and integrated individuals who have a firm belief in and devotion to God. In addressing the importance of the holistic notion in art education in Malaysian context, the Western concept of holism and integrated education are discussed from the perspectives of aim, philosophical principles underpinning the practices, curriculum, and the teaching and learning process. Most importantly, children and adolescents who have strong social and emotional learning (SEL) skills outperform their peers in academics, have better physical health, and have a higher quality of life. The authors discuss holistic paradigms for the future of visual arts education, starting with some of the key features of postmodernism holistic education, especially as they relate to a transformative approach to teaching art. A framework for improving art teaching has been proposed, which the Ministry of Education (MOE) and Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) can use as a guideline when reviewing art education policies.