Practical Demonstration and Documentation of SelectedDecorative Techniques In Leatherwork for Teaching andLearning In Senior High Schools

Abstract

The study sought to practically demonstrate and document the production processes involved in the execution of selected decorative techniques requisite for teaching and learning Leatherwork in Senior High Schools (SHS). It has been observed that due to inadequate teaching and learning resources such as demonstrational books, tools/equipment, both teachers and students find challenges in executing decorative techniques relevant in leather artifact production. Visits to some Senior High Schools ascertain that there is lack of confidence on the part of both instructors and leaners in delivering some commonly key techniques which facilitate practical pedagogies in the study of Leatherwork in most Visual Art Departments in Ghanaian schools, and this makes both students and teachers struggle in acquisition of some impartation knowledge and skills. This study therefore set out to take actions to avert the situation. Studio based research approaches were employed to practically demonstrate selected Leatherwork techniques relevant to guide students in practical studies. With pictorial support, the step-by-step procedures in executing each technique were documented as pedagogical resource. The study achieved its aim successfully, and concluded that to attain better desirable design patterns and aesthetic value, the execution of decorative techni  ques should be performed on carefully selected leathers with surfaces devoid of defects and distortions. Therefore, full grain leathers with bright surfaces are recommended as best choice for rendering decorative techniques. Again, the researchers recommend and encourage both teachers and students to adopt the documented decorative techniques to support practical pedagogy in their Senior High Schools.