fargeundervisning

Fargeundervisning, literally “color education” in Norwegian, is a term used in art and design education to describe structured teaching about color. It covers both theoretical principles of color and practical application in art, design, and communication, with emphasis on how color affects perception, mood, and meaning.

Key components include color theory (hue, value, saturation), color models (RGB, CMYK, HSV), and methods of color mixing (additive and subtractive). It also addresses color perception, color harmony and contrast (complementary, analogous, triadic), and cultural associations across contexts. Students learn to analyze and describe color relationships, light interaction, and the effects of color in different media and lighting conditions.

Pedagogical approaches favor experiential learning: experiments with pigments or digital tools, discovery-based tasks, color wheels, and projects that require choosing and justifying color choices. Instruction often incorporates observational activities, design challenges, and collaborative work. Assessment typically relies on portfolios, process notes, and reflective writing to document growth in color sense and visual communication, rather than only final results.

Historically, color education has drawn on theories from scientists and artists, including Newton, Goethe, Chevreul, and Itten, and has evolved with new media and digital design. It remains closely linked to visual literacy, enabling students to understand and communicate ideas through color in art, media, fashion, and architecture.

In Norway, fargeundervisning is commonly integrated into kunst og håndverk (arts and crafts) within primary and secondary education, supporting cross-disciplinary learning and the development of students’ ability to interpret and use color purposefully.