The effect of arts criticism method on students? learning processes in three-dimensional works in visual arts course (a case from 8th grade classes)

What kind of an effect arts criticism method has on the learning processes in three-dimensional works was attempted to be determined through this research. Art critic and perception processes, application skills for three-dimensional works and affective properties in the learning processes were researched. The processes mentioned are important also to determine the limitations of the research. Also, the processes mentioned above are related with the sub-objectives of the research.In order to make sound observations related with the purpose of enquiry and to more clearly perceive the impact of art criticism on three-dimensional works; the readiness level of the students that are to participate in the research is determined at the first hand. Firstly, the findings that would serve to the 1st sub-objective were achieved through determining the existing learning levels of the students. Secondly, a program, which is constituted of chapter and daily plans that bring arts criticism and three-dimensional working together, was prepared. The program prepared is one of six-weeks and include pre-interviews, course process interviews and observations, and post-interviews. Four weeks of this six-weeks program are composed of teaching and application process. The changes, which are created by the art-criticism and three dimensional works intensive programs, concerning the process and the result are investigated.Qualitative data collection method was used in the research. The model of the research is constituted of Case Study. Also, II working groups, one independent observer and participant observer took place in the research. Researcher is in the position of observer. ?Typical case? sample was utilized in the selection of students for the Ist working group. ?Atypical case? sample was used in the IInd working group.Findings of the research were tried to be acquired through the interviews made during and after the teaching process and observation notes taken by independent observer and participant observer. Data of the research were derived from interviews with students and independent observers, and from the observation notes of independent observer and participant observer. Following the data discovered within this process, findings about the 2nd, 3rd and 4th sub-objectives of the research were acquired.Results of the research showed that arts criticism method contributed positively to students? learning processes.The data derived from the research were resolved through content analysis, descriptive analysis and document analysis; and matrices and models were established through the usage of NVivo 8.0 package program. Findings were evaluated also by three specialists in the field for validity-reliability of the research. The reliability among the specialists was achieved by Miles and Huberman reliability calculation.Keywords: Art Criticism, Three-Dimensional, Sculpture, Learning, Perception, Affective Properties