EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION STUDENTS' INTEREST IN THE ARTS AS REPORTED IN THEIR SATISFACTION SURVEY WITH THE VISUAL ARTS TEACHING METHODOLOGY COURSE IN CROATIA

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between student satisfaction with the Visual Arts Teaching Methodology course and their interest in arts. The participants were recruited from seven faculties of teacher education in Croatia, and the sample consisted of early childhood education students in their third year of study (N = 220). Frequency of visiting art exhibits, participation in after-school art programs, and interest in art forms were the independent variables, whereas satisfaction with the course was the dependent variable. Students who expressed interest in visual arts and puppetry and performing arts reported higher satisfaction with the course compared to the other students. Students who expressed interest in dance reported lower satisfaction with the course compared to the students who did not report being interested in dance. The frequency of visiting art exhibits and the duration of after-school art education were positively correlated with the students' course satisfaction. It is possible that interests in certain art forms can affect the students' motivation for active participation and learning during the course and consequently determine their satisfaction with the course.