In class last Sunday, during an activity working to have a discussion about visual studies vs. art history, while considering funding, I had a conversation with several classmates that helped clear up some of my questions about the debated topic.

One member of the group spoke about the incorporation of visual studies in his classroom (high school English class). He gave examples of how students can use taught skills that strive toward becoming visual literate. He talked about how he as thought about the event of exhibiting the learning of students, holding panel discussions about the process and progress, and incorporating the community and parents at such an exhibit. I reflected later on this and thought of the benefits, in terms of a student become 'literate'. The students are active and engaged.

Another member of the group I was working in during the debating activity told of her experiences in museums where she worked with students as they recognized themes in artwork that reflected themes from texts they read in the classroom. She continued providing examples from her own experiences where students took a piece of artwork and wrote historical text based on the image, or when students compare a movie with a book it originated from.

I felt very fortunate to have the opportunity to listen to my peers share their experiences. This was especially helpful because I have yet to collect enough experience with visual studies and it's use in the classroom, to have generated the understanding I have now, on my own.