Punk pedagogy: rebellion, critique, self-examination, exploration, and diy in the secondary visual arts classroom

During this study, punk pedagogy was used as a foundation for teaching in a secondary art classroom. Punk pedagogy is a merging of punk ideals and philosophy with teaching methodology and practice. Punk pedagogy encourages students to take control of their own education and encourages individual knowledge seeking. In contrast, traditional schooling methods such as data-driven decision making and traditional grades decrease student motivation and exploration in schools. Punk pedagogy offers an alternative approach to education through the use of rebellion, critique, self-examination, exploration, and do-it-yourself, or DIY.

This arts-based and autoethnographic study was conducted in a secondary art classroom with students ranging from 14 to 18 years old. The use of punk pedagogy served as a cornerstone for all teaching and learning in the classroom. The study was documented using arts-based research in the form of a zine as well as reflective notes. Students learned the history and use of zines in punk culture as well as explored their own ideas and individual interests. In conclusion, teachers and administrators need to examine how students most effectively learn and create alternative teaching methods to support their growth.