Dr. Patricia K. Belleville

Professor of Art Education, Art Education Graduate Program Director Email: pkbelleville@eiu.edu

Education & Training

1978 B.F.A. Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL
1986 M.A.T. (Master of Art and Teaching) University of Louisville, Louisville, KY
1996 Ed.D. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Research & Creative Interests

Area of research interest is “Background Knowledge,” which is what a student knows about knowledge in a particular domain. This knowledge manifests itself as vocabulary, and leads to concept formation through the use of vocabulary in the discussion and making of art. The ability to be able to use appropriate vocabulary in talking or thinking about art may also help adults retain a life long interest in art. Current research project examines the use of the National Social Studies Standards to guide the use of Art History in the development of art curriculums and how they can be used to structure the way children think about art. The topics presented as part of the social studies curriculum allow the students to develop background knowledge about a subject and will enable them to learn the subject thoroughly and provide depth and breath to the educational experience.

Professional Affiliations

1996-present, Eastern Illinois University, Professor - Art Education
1991-1996; 2001-2002 University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Instructor - Art Education
1986-1990, Elizabethtown Community College, Instructor - Art Education
1985-1991, Fort Knox Elementary Schools, Fort Knox, KY, Elementary Art Instructor