Education and Therapy Through Art in the Reality of a Post-Pandemic School

Abstract

The aim of the study presented in the article was to demonstrate the benefits of education and art therapy for students returning to traditional learning after the period of online education caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The article presents selected Polish and foreign studies on the relationship between the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) and psychological deterioration in schoolage children. Taking into account the probable intensification of such cases related to the widespread use of ICT in teaching during the pandemic, the need for systematic psychological support of the majority of students in the reality of the “post-pandemic school” is observed. Hence, the suggestion to introduce elements of art therapy in Polish schools. Art therapy as an activity facilitating group integration, expression of emotions and self-regulation using art and creative expression was presented as a possibility of adapting educational activities to the new challenges and needs of students. The reflections of Herbert Read, which serve as the conceptual framework for the article, indicate the interpretation of his ideas as a prototype of modern, visionary education incorporating elements akin to the purposes of art therapy.