Katrín Helga Andrésdóttir
Katrín Helga Andrésdóttir graduates with a master's degree and teaching license from the art education department in the spring of 2025.
Photographer Liv Toerkell
Teenagers who don't love elementary school -
Empowerment with semi-formal art studies outside of school walls
Teenagers who don't love elementary school discusses how art education outside the traditional school system can contribute to the empowerment of teenagers, especially those who experience social exclusion or do not find themselves among their peers within the walls of elementary school Research shows that artistic teenagers are a vulnerable group, exposed to social exclusion Challenging tasks outside of school could activate their creativity, intelligence, and enhance positive self-image in dealing with peers.
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- Dragon Forest, photographer Agnar Jón Egilsson
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- Cinderella, Photographer Sarah Unnsteinsdóttir
The study draws on a qualitative methodology, in which interviews were conducted with former participants and instructors in semi-formal studies in the performing arts They described experiencing in the projects the freedom to be themselves, having formed close social relationships, and making indiscriminate use of the word „flourishing“ Identity creation theories were used to analyze the impact of such learning on participants The study demonstrates that teenagers who do not fit into the social environment of elementary schools, can flourish in a creative environment where they are given more space for expression and where diversity is celebrated.
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- Grrrls by Ásrúna Magnúsdóttir, photographer Steve Lorenz
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- Teenage Songbook of Love and Sex by Ásrúna Magnúsdóttir, photographer: Jonas Verbeke
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- Listening party by Ásrúna Magnúsdóttir, photographer Owen Fiene
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- Listening party by Ásrúna Magnúsdóttir, photographer: Owen Fiene
The results show that semi-formal arts education such as community theatre with teenagers is an important resource that can contribute to a positive identity and social functioning Furthermore, it can create cultural value However, the study also points to systemic obstacles, including a lack of resources and support from the government With these findings, the essay sheds light on the importance of providing youth with a more diverse educational environment and revising how schools and society can better meet their needs.
Supervisors: Guðbjörg R. Jóhannesdóttir and Ásrún Magnúsdóttir
30 ECTS MA Art Education
2025
