Visual Thinking Strategies

Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) is a well-known program developed by Abigail Housen and Philip Yenawine more than twenty years ago, with the mission to broaden the use of VTS, deepen our research, and increase the understanding of Aesthetic Development. VTS is used in museums both locally and internationally, as well as in schools, colleges and universities. Grounded in 30 years of cognitive research, VTS can produce results in a wide range of participants—from children in underserved communities to ESL learners to medical students. Today, VTS is one of the most significant art education and critical thinking programs with a national presence. We are a small staff with an active national volunteer board, along with regional VTS boards which support teams of trainers and consultants through out the country and the world. Participants in VTS programs look at visual images, chosen on the basis of their developmental level, and discuss them with others with the support of a VTS-trained teacher. VTS educators meet regularly through the VTS Partner Network. This network consists of museums and educational leaders that use VTS as part of their museum or school programs. The work of VTS could not have been accomplished without our philanthropic partners who have generously supported the work of VTS over the last 16 years. Their gifts have sustained the program in their immediate local communities or through the work of the national office.