TRAINEE OPINIONS ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF USING SGRAFFITO TECNIQUE IN EDUCATION

Sgraffito is a skill technique meaning engraving. It involves engraving a pattern drawn on ceramics with ultrathin centrings using a needle or sharp pointed metal pencil. The shades in the light and dark parts on the surface in micron thickness are made clear by centring and then the final product is kilned. Having been identified with the city of Kütahya since 1992, the use of this art in education is on voluntary basis; however, it is seen that no satisfactory awareness has been achieved in terms of cultural heritage or educational output. The aim of this study was to put forth the benefits of sgraffito for education. Semi-structured interview method was used in the research. Sgrafitto trainees were asked the potential benefits of this technique for education and the replies are analysed. The content validity of the research was conducted by the researchers and the validity was achieved by taking exact quotation from the trainees’ opinions out of which the coding was obtained. The content analysis was based on categorical data analysis. 10 trainees currently following the course participated in the research. According to the results of the research, it is concluded that this art, where there is no recycling or a chance to correct a fault, develops such skills and attributes as patience, attention, diligence, courtesy, etc. in children and so will be of great benefit if used in education. Therefore, it is suggested that this art should be taught at schools as an elective course, researched at universities especially as an art unique to the city of Kütahya, promoted to those interested in this art through informal education courses andthat alternative ways of additional income should be provided for those occupied with this art.