Gigi Schroeder Yu

Gigi Schroeder Yu is an esteemed Assistant Professor of Art Education at the Art University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, bringing over two decades of rich experience in teaching art across diverse educational settings. Her journey in art education has spanned community centers, public school classrooms, and beyond, where she has passionately imparted her knowledge and love for art to students of all ages. Yu's research is deeply rooted in the Reggio Emilia philosophy, a progressive approach to early childhood education that emphasizes the importance of child-centered learning and the role of the environment as the third teacher. She is particularly interested in exploring the role of the atelierista, a specialist in the arts who works closely with children and teachers to foster creative expression and learning. Her work also delves into the pedagogical documentation of children's artistic expressions, a practice that involves observing, recording, and interpreting the creative processes and products of young learners. In addition to her teaching and research, Yu serves as an editor for the Innovations in Early Education journal, where she contributes to the dissemination of cutting-edge research and practices in early childhood education. Her commitment to supporting teachers in action and arts-based research is evident in her collaborative efforts to empower educators to integrate art into their teaching practices effectively. Yu's contributions to the field of art education have not gone unnoticed. She has been honored with the NM Art Education Advocacy Award, recognizing her dedication to advancing art education and advocating for its importance in the broader educational landscape. Her academic credentials include a Master's degree in Art Education from the University of Arizona and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, both of which have equipped her with a strong foundation in educational theory and practice. Through her work, Gigi Schroeder Yu continues to inspire and influence the next generation of art educators, fostering a love for art and creativity that transcends traditional educational boundaries. Her dedication to her craft and her students is a testament to her belief in the transformative power of art education.