Benefits of an Art Education
I feel that art is necessary in a child’s education. Does that surprise anyone, especially since I am an art teacher? I have seen many students benefit from the following in my art classroom:
- improved self-esteem and self-confidence,
- increased observational skills,
- greater use of imagination and creativity,
- ability to problem solve through trial and error,
- freedom from fear of failure,
- increased desire to come to class,
- pride in creative work,
- thoughtful judgment of works done by self and peers,
- awareness of other ways to see the world,
- teamwork,
- respect for others,
- appreciation for art in history and other cultures, and
- increased ability to switch from left to right brain thinking.
In some school districts, the arts are valued. But in others, the arts are taking a backseat. Courses in the arts are often the first to go when curriculum changes are made.
I decided to do some research on the web for articles about art education. Here they are:
Art For Our Sake by Ellen Winner and Lois Hetland.
Guggenheim Study Suggests Art Education Benefits Literacy Skills
Book Tackles Old Debate: Role of Art in Schools
Art Education: The Benefits
Benefits of Art and Music Education
Making a Better Case for the Benefits of Art Education
Americans For the Arts: Quick Facts
