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The Importance of Art Education in the Classroom

November 30, 2023

That deceptively simple, four-word query confronts a topic that’s occupied some of the world’s greatest creators and philosophers since Plato. How we answer this question can have much bigger consequences than whether you get to buy a piece of artwork from Banksy’s online store. The issue of art’s value becomes far more pressing when policymakers and administrators decide how to allocate time and funding for art education in schools.

Art teachers must be ready to advocate for committing the necessary resources to prioritize the value of creativity in the classroom. You may have to explain the importance of art education in a school’s curriculum and present the research to back up those claims. We can become powerful advocates for the power of art and improved student outcomes by investigating the many benefits that come out of integrating more creativity into the school day and improving our classroom strategies .

Why Is Art Education In Schools Important?

Anyone who’s passionate about the arts recalls formative moments of experiencing a work of art pushing through a creative challenge. When we’re exposed to remarkable artworks or have opportunities to create, we find that art is crucial to individual growth and development and can even impact our health.

A literature review from Frontiers in Psychology outlined several studies linking aesthetic experiences with broad improvements in subjects’ emotional states that promote physical and psychological well-being. Giving learners the time, space, and materials for creative expression can lower stress, improve memory, and make them feel more socially connected. Instructors can build their careers on bringing those experiences to students in a variety of settings, like galleries, museums, or events organized by nonprofit and community organizations.

Appreciation for art also makes a significant difference in people’s lives on a macro level. Entire societies may stand to gain from an investment in the arts. Drawing on data from the General Social Survey, researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago’s Department of Public Administration linked participation as either an audience member or creator to higher levels of civic engagement and social tolerance . This work suggests that children learning how to draw, paint, sing, or just appreciate the works made by others can help us become not just happier and healthier, but also better people. Learn about UF’s Online Master of Arts in Art Education program

How Does Art Education Help Students?

When surveyed by the nonprofit organization Americans for the Arts, members of the U.S. public overwhelmingly agreed that the arts are one aspect of a well-rounded K-12 education . In addition, a recent study conducted in Houston public schools showed that students who participated in arts education see the following benefits:

• Improved writing achievement
• Reduced disciplinary infractions
• More student engagement
• Improved college aspirations
• No drop in standardized test scores

Yet, participation in the visual and performing arts is often treated as merely supplemental to other aspects of learning. As a result, there are major differences in access to art and music classes across the country.

2019 findings from the National Assessment of Educational Progress showed that eighth graders in the Northeast were much more likely to report being enrolled in a visual arts course than those in the South. Disparities were also tied to race, ethnicity, family income, and whether a school is located in a city, suburb, town, or rural area.

Meanwhile, the Nation’s Report Card shows that U.S. students continue to score lower than many of their peers in Europe and Asia on standardized tests despite years of pressure on educators to close the achievement gap. But seeking to improve student performance in math and reading does not have to come at the expense of art education.

In fact, researchers from the Johns Hopkins University School of Education, argue that instruction becomes more effective when educators integrate creative activities and make them central to academic development. Across disciplines, including STEM, there’s room to reimagine classes with a strong emphasis on drawing, painting, playing music, performing drama, and other creative pursuits. Encouraging students to use their imagination can help them actively engage with new concepts and discover connections between ideas as well as provide advantages for their social and emotional well-being.

One example of effectively integrating arts and creative expression with other fields as a pedagogical strategy can be seen in the collaboration between University of Florida faculty members Susan K. Jacobson, who studies wildlife ecology and conservation, and Robert C. Mueller, who teaches printmaking. The UF professors collaborated on an interdisciplinary project in climate change communication in which groups of graduate students from both the School of Natural Resources and the Environment and the College of the Arts visited the university’s Seahorse Key Marine Laboratory. The students participated in learning activities like scientific lectures, discussions, and making collages before working in small groups to create environmental communication materials for visitors.

As this example shows, students benefit from learning to embrace insights from multiple disciplines, and this can be valuable when they go on to pursue jobs. A 2019 survey from the National Association of Colleges and Employers showed that employers are interested in hiring professionals with skills that can be strengthened through participation in the arts, such as written communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and taking initiative. Art teachers can help students become more well-rounded and capable individuals by teaching them to develop original ideas through creative projects and practices.

The Importance of Art Education in Early Childhood and Beyond

It’s never too soon to introduce kids to the possibilities of creative expression. As outlined in a literature review from the National Endowment for the Arts, a variety of studies demonstrate the value of embedding artistic practice into early childhood education . Imaginative activities for young learners can lead to better skills in social interactions and emotional regulation.

Lessons in the arts introduce K-12 students to problem-solving techniques, which help them to see the world in new ways, and provide access to creative ways of knowing. Kids discover how art can communicate their own ideas and may become interested in creating increasingly realistic depictions and mastering new techniques. By high school, young artists can think critically about their own work and that of others, establishing a unique point of view and a sense of community with other creative individuals.

The National Core Arts Standards provide a framework for advancing students’ artistic understanding . This structure breaks down the developmental stages from Pre K through high school into 10 anchor standards. In each stage, students build creative habits as they learn to:

• Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work
• Organize and develop ideas and work
• Refine and complete artistic work
• Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation
• Convey meaning through the presentation
• Perceive and analyze artistic work
• Interpret intent and meaning
• Apply criteria to evaluate work
• Make art by synthesizing and relating knowledge and personal experiences
• Deepen understanding by relating artistic ideas to societal, historical, and cultural contexts

Pediatrician Dr. Perri Klass outlined the benefits of art education in schools in the New York Times, noting improvements for overall motivation, thinking, and academic achievement . An arts-integrated curriculum that asks students to draw or sing as part of the learning process may enhance their ability to recall material such as scientific principles or vocabulary. Foregrounding creativity can be especially effective for students who struggle to retain information from traditional lectures and reading assignments alone.

Art does matter in the classroom, delivering a wide range of advantages for students. Educators can make the most of that potential by equipping themselves to offer creative practice as a central feature in the curriculum and show decisionmakers how these initiatives can achieve transformative results. The University of Florida’s online Master of Arts in Art Education (MAAE) program helps teachers make a difference. This program features courses that prepare educators to work in a variety of learning environments , support students of all ages, incorporate digital tools into their pedagogy, and foster critical thinking.

About the Online Master’s in Art Education from the University of Florida

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The power of the arts in learning and the curriculum: a review of research literature

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• Volume 41 , pages 93–100, ( 2021 )

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Saunders, J.N. The power of the arts in learning and the curriculum: a review of research literature. Curric Perspect 41 , 93–100 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s41297-021-00138-4

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New evidence of the benefits of arts education

Subscribe to the brown center on education policy newsletter, brian kisida and bk brian kisida assistant professor, truman school of public affairs - university of missouri @briankisida daniel h. bowen dhb daniel h. bowen assistant professor, college of education and human development - texas a&m university @_dhbowen.

February 12, 2019

Engaging with art is essential to the human experience. Almost as soon as motor skills are developed, children communicate through artistic expression. The arts challenge us with different points of view, compel us to empathize with “others,” and give us the opportunity to reflect on the human condition. Empirical evidence supports these claims: Among adults, arts participation is related to behaviors that contribute to the health of civil society , such as increased civic engagement, greater social tolerance, and reductions in other-regarding behavior. Yet, while we recognize art’s transformative impacts, its place in K-12 education has become increasingly tenuous.

A critical challenge for arts education has been a lack of empirical evidence that demonstrates its educational value. Though few would deny that the arts confer intrinsic benefits, advocating “art for art’s sake” has been insufficient for preserving the arts in schools—despite national surveys showing an overwhelming majority of the public agrees that the arts are a necessary part of a well-rounded education.

Over the last few decades, the proportion of students receiving arts education has shrunk drastically . This trend is primarily attributable to the expansion of standardized-test-based accountability, which has pressured schools to focus resources on tested subjects. As the saying goes, what gets measured gets done. These pressures have disproportionately affected access to the arts in a negative way for students from historically underserved communities. For example, a federal government report found that schools designated under No Child Left Behind as needing improvement and schools with higher percentages of minority students were more likely to experience decreases in time spent on arts education.

We recently conducted the first ever large-scale, randomized controlled trial study of a city’s collective efforts to restore arts education through community partnerships and investments. Building on our previous investigations of the impacts of enriching arts field trip experiences, this study examines the effects of a sustained reinvigoration of schoolwide arts education. Specifically, our study focuses on the initial two years of Houston’s Arts Access Initiative and includes 42 elementary and middle schools with over 10,000 third- through eighth-grade students. Our study was made possible by generous support of the Houston Endowment , the National Endowment for the Arts , and the Spencer Foundation .

Due to the program’s gradual rollout and oversubscription, we implemented a lottery to randomly assign which schools initially participated. Half of these schools received substantial influxes of funding earmarked to provide students with a vast array of arts educational experiences throughout the school year. Participating schools were required to commit a monetary match to provide arts experiences. Including matched funds from the Houston Endowment, schools in the treatment group had an average of $14.67 annually per student to facilitate and enhance partnerships with arts organizations and institutions. In addition to arts education professional development for school leaders and teachers, students at the 21 treatment schools received, on average, 10 enriching arts educational experiences across dance, music, theater, and visual arts disciplines. Schools partnered with cultural organizations and institutions that provided these arts learning opportunities through before- and after-school programs, field trips, in-school performances from professional artists, and teaching-artist residencies. Principals worked with the Arts Access Initiative director and staff to help guide arts program selections that aligned with their schools’ goals.

Our research efforts were part of a multisector collaboration that united district administrators, cultural organizations and institutions, philanthropists, government officials, and researchers. Collective efforts similar to Houston’s Arts Access Initiative have become increasingly common means for supplementing arts education opportunities through school-community partnerships. Other examples include Boston’s Arts Expansion Initiative , Chicago’s Creative Schools Initiative , and Seattle’s Creative Advantage .

Through our partnership with the Houston Education Research Consortium, we obtained access to student-level demographics, attendance and disciplinary records, and test score achievement, as well as the ability to collect original survey data from all 42 schools on students’ school engagement and social and emotional-related outcomes.

We find that a substantial increase in arts educational experiences has remarkable impacts on students’ academic, social, and emotional outcomes. Relative to students assigned to the control group, treatment school students experienced a 3.6 percentage point reduction in disciplinary infractions, an improvement of 13 percent of a standard deviation in standardized writing scores, and an increase of 8 percent of a standard deviation in their compassion for others. In terms of our measure of compassion for others, students who received more arts education experiences are more interested in how other people feel and more likely to want to help people who are treated badly.

When we restrict our analysis to elementary schools, which comprised 86 percent of the sample and were the primary target of the program, we also find that increases in arts learning positively and significantly affect students’ school engagement, college aspirations, and their inclinations to draw upon works of art as a means for empathizing with others. In terms of school engagement, students in the treatment group were more likely to agree that school work is enjoyable, makes them think about things in new ways, and that their school offers programs, classes, and activities that keep them interested in school. We generally did not find evidence to suggest significant impacts on students’ math, reading, or science achievement, attendance, or our other survey outcomes, which we discuss in our full report .

As education policymakers increasingly rely on empirical evidence to guide and justify decisions, advocates struggle to make the case for the preservation and restoration of K-12 arts education. To date, there is a remarkable lack of large-scale experimental studies that investigate the educational impacts of the arts. One problem is that U.S. school systems rarely collect and report basic data that researchers could use to assess students’ access and participation in arts educational programs. Moreover, the most promising outcomes associated with arts education learning objectives extend beyond commonly reported outcomes such as math and reading test scores. There are strong reasons to suspect that engagement in arts education can improve school climate, empower students with a sense of purpose and ownership, and enhance mutual respect for their teachers and peers. Yet, as educators and policymakers have come to recognize the importance of expanding the measures we use to assess educational effectiveness, data measuring social and emotional benefits are not widely collected. Future efforts should continue to expand on the types of measures used to assess educational program and policy effectiveness.

These findings provide strong evidence that arts educational experiences can produce significant positive impacts on academic and social development. Because schools play a pivotal role in cultivating the next generation of citizens and leaders, it is imperative that we reflect on the fundamental purpose of a well-rounded education. This mission is critical in a time of heightened intolerance and pressing threats to our core democratic values. As policymakers begin to collect and value outcome measures beyond test scores, we are likely to further recognize the value of the arts in the fundamental mission of education.

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Benefits of art education: a review of the literature.

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Though extensive studies exist regarding the use of the arts in general education settings, a comparable amount of research is still needed to support the need for the use of the arts in special education settings. This review of the literature examined the role of the arts in general education and special education. The studies revealed that the arts provided benefits to students in both the general education and special education settings in academic, social and behavioral areas.

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Art Education and its Impact on Creativity and Critical Thinking Skills: A Review literature

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Cultivating insight and engagement: exploring the role of trait emotional intelligence in chinese art education, improving quality of early education: adopting private kindergarten practices in public education, 17 references, comparing the effects of art education and science education on creative thinking in high school students, developing critical and creative thinkers: toward a conceptual model of creative and critical thinking processes, the effect of decorative arts course on nursing students' creativity and critical thinking dispositions., the effect of problem-based learning on the creative thinking and critical thinking disposition of students in visual arts education..

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Children’s literature is an area of frequent scholarship, reflecting its influential position in telling stories, developing literacy, and sharing knowledge in many cultures. At its best, children’s literature is transformative in the lives of children and their adult reading companions, and as such plays an important role in society. Indeed, in the last several decades, children’s literature has become an important focus of teaching and research in centres for literature and literary criticism, education, and library/information sciences in universities across the world. Much has been written about the historical undervaluing of children’s literature and research in this area (e.g., Nikolajeva, 2016). While there is considerable literature concerning the teaching of children’s literature in primary and secondary classrooms (e.g., Bland & Lütge, 2012; Arizpe & Styles, 2016; Ommundsen et al., 2021), there has been relatively little scholarship on the pedagogy involved in teaching chi...

Konstantinos Malafantis

Cambridge Journal of Education

Teresa Cremin

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OUR PUBLICATIONS > Arts in Education and Creativity: A literature review

Arts in Education and Creativity: A literature review

Authors: Mike Fleming

Institution: Durham University

Full Reference: Fleming, M. (2010) Arts in Education and Creativity: A literature review. 2nd ed. London: Creativity, Culture and Education.

Report summary

This literature review offers an historical and theoretical overview of arts education, its place in the English curriculum, and its relationship with creative learning and creativity education. It centres on official policy discourse and attempts to outline key moments and movements in the history of arts education over the last 120 years. One of the author’s key messages is that we should not lump all the arts together, short synopses of four discrete arts disciplines make this argument very clearly.

The review discusses the concept of creativity in arts, looking at how the term has been used and interpreted and what this signals about the arts in education. The author concludes that ‘a vibrant and successful future for the arts in education must lie partly in effective support from politicians and policy makers but also in developing understanding and practice through continued debate and dialogue.’

Author: Mike Fleming

Full reference: Fleming, M. (2010) Arts in Education and Creativity: A literature review . 2nd ed. London: Creativity, Culture and Education.

Summary of key findings

Methodology.

Literature Review

Read the review .

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Unlocking Potential: Why is Literature Important in Education?

Table of Contents

Literature plays a vital role in education, offering a multitude of benefits that contribute to the holistic development of learners. From cultivating critical thinking and empathy to enhancing social-emotional skills and promoting reading engagement, literature has a significant impact on education. In this article, we will explore the various ways in which literature is essential in education and why it should be included in educational settings.

Factual data shows that literature is crucial in maximizing the potential of millions of children, particularly in regions with high learning poverty rates like Sub-Saharan Africa. Programs such as EdoBEST in Nigeria have demonstrated the positive impact of literature on learning outcomes, highlighting the value of studying literature in education.

One of the key benefits of literature in education is its ability to improve vocabulary and language skills. Reading exposes learners to a wide range of words and language models, equipping them with the necessary tools to excel in various subjects. Moreover, literature fosters critical thinking by encouraging deep analysis and problem-solving, allowing students to analyze complex ideas and develop their intellectual capabilities.

Literature also plays a significant role in building cultural capital and fostering empathy. Through exposure to diverse literary works, students gain insights into different cultures, traditions, and historical contexts. By connecting with characters and understanding their experiences, readers develop empathy and broaden their perspectives.

Additionally, literature enhances social-emotional skills and nurtures creativity. Engaging with literary texts helps students develop emotional intelligence, empathy, and self-awareness. Moreover, literature sparks imagination and creativity, encouraging students to think outside the box and explore new ideas.

Another important aspect of literature in education is its ability to promote reading engagement and language development. By exposing students to different literary genres, literature creates a love for reading and instills a lifelong passion for learning. The rich vocabulary and language models found in literature contribute to language development and communication skills.

Furthermore, literature builds background knowledge and supports lifelong learning. Through literary texts, students gain a deeper understanding of various topics, historical events, and cultural phenomena. This exposure broadens their knowledge base and instills a love for continuous learning.

Lastly, literature education in prisons has shown remarkable results in reducing recidivism rates. By providing inmates with a sense of purpose, personal growth, and a connection to the world beyond prison walls, literature education plays a crucial role in rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.

Key Takeaways:

• Literature is essential in education, unlocking opportunities and laying the foundation for future learning.
• Reading literature improves vocabulary, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
• Literature builds cultural capital, fosters empathy, and broadens perspectives.
• Engaging with literature enhances social-emotional skills and nurtures creativity.
• Literature promotes reading engagement, language development, and a lifelong love for learning.

Cultivating Critical Thinking and Perspective Taking

Literature in education fosters critical thinking skills and encourages readers to embrace multiple perspectives. Analyzing literary texts promotes deep thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to analyze complex ideas. Through the exploration of diverse characters and narratives, literature challenges readers to question assumptions, consider different viewpoints, and develop their own unique perspectives.

By immersing themselves in different literary worlds, learners gain a broader understanding of human experiences and cultures. Literature provides insights into diverse societies, historical contexts, and social issues, fostering empathy and expanding cultural understanding. It enables readers to step into the shoes of characters from different backgrounds, allowing them to develop a greater appreciation for diverse perspectives and fostering a more inclusive worldview.

The Power of Literature in Developing Critical Thinking

In addition to broadening perspectives, literature also plays a significant role in developing critical thinking skills. The complexity of literary texts encourages readers to analyze and interpret information, make connections, and evaluate different arguments. Engaging with literature requires readers to think critically, analyze narratives, and draw conclusions based on evidence from the text. These skills are transferable and can be applied to other subjects and real-life situations.

Overall, literature’s ability to cultivate critical thinking and perspective taking makes it an essential component of education. By incorporating literature into educational settings, learners are equipped with the skills necessary to navigate a complex world, embrace diversity, and think critically about the challenges they may face. To learn more about the benefits of literature in education, visit Exquisitive Education .

Building Cultural Capital and Empathy

Literature in education builds cultural capital and nurtures empathy by immersing readers in diverse cultural landscapes and fostering emotional connections. Through literary works, students gain valuable insights into different societies, traditions, and historical contexts. They develop an understanding and appreciation for cultures that are different from their own, broadening their perspectives and promoting cultural sensitivity.

Engaging with literature also allows readers to connect deeply with characters and their experiences. By empathizing with fictional individuals, students develop a greater understanding of human emotions and motivations. They learn to see the world through diverse lenses, cultivating empathy and compassion.

Expanding Cultural Horizons

One of the key benefits of literature in education is the expansion of cultural horizons. By exploring various literary works, students are exposed to different cultural backgrounds, allowing them to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the world. They learn about unique customs, traditions, and values, fostering a respect for diversity. This exposure creates a foundation for global citizenship and prepares students to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.

Furthermore, literature helps students recognize their own biases and challenges preconceived notions. By immersing themselves in stories that highlight the experiences of marginalized groups, they develop empathy and a heightened awareness of social injustices. This, in turn, encourages them to become advocates for equality and change.

In conclusion, literature in education plays a vital role in building cultural capital and nurturing empathy. It allows students to explore diverse cultures, broaden their perspectives, and develop a greater understanding of the human experience. By immersing themselves in literary works, learners gain the necessary tools to navigate a multicultural world with empathy and compassion. To unlock the potential of learners and promote personal development, integrating literature into educational curricula is essential.

Enhancing Social-Emotional Skills and Creativity

Literature in education enhances social-emotional skills, fostering emotional intelligence and nurturing creativity. Engaging with literary texts helps students develop a deeper understanding of their own emotions and those of others. Through the exploration of diverse characters and their experiences, readers are encouraged to develop empathy and connect with different perspectives. This emotional intelligence not only enhances their interpersonal relationships but also equips them with vital skills for navigating the complexities of the world.

Moreover, literature sparks creativity and imagination. As students immerse themselves in the rich language and vivid imagery of literature, they are inspired to think innovatively and critically. Literary texts provide a canvas for students to explore new ideas, challenge conventions, and expand their creative horizons. This creative mindset nurtures their ability to approach problems from multiple angles and find unique solutions.

By incorporating literature into education, educators create an environment that values emotional growth and creative thinking. This integration ensures that students develop the social-emotional skills necessary for success in various aspects of life. Whether it’s fostering empathy, promoting critical thinking, or nurturing creativity, literature plays a pivotal role in unlocking the potential of learners and shaping them into well-rounded individuals.

Table: Benefits of Literature in Education

Embracing literature in education not only unlocks the potential of individuals but also benefits society as a whole. By fostering social-emotional skills and creativity, literature equips students with the tools to navigate an ever-changing world with compassion and innovation. It is through literature that learners can develop their full capacity and become active contributors to their communities. To explore the transformative power of literature in education, visit Exquisitive Education .

Promoting Reading Engagement and Language Development

Literature in education promotes reading engagement and facilitates language development, fostering a lifelong love for reading and enhancing communication skills. Through exposure to different literary genres, students are encouraged to explore a variety of narratives, themes, and writing styles, sparking their interest and curiosity. As they immerse themselves in the world of literature, they develop the habit of reading regularly, expanding their knowledge and understanding of the world around them.

Reading literature provides students with an opportunity to encounter new vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, and sentence structures. By encountering these linguistic elements in context, students develop a deeper understanding of their meaning and usage, enhancing their language skills. The rich language models found in literature also serve as a source of inspiration for students to improve their own writing and communication abilities.

Benefits of Literature in Education

Engaging with literature not only promotes reading engagement and language development but also nurtures critical thinking skills, empathy, and cultural understanding. Analyzing literary texts requires students to think critically, evaluate evidence, and make connections, fostering their ability to solve problems and analyze complex ideas.

As students encounter characters from different cultures and backgrounds, they gain insight and empathy into diverse experiences, fostering their ability to connect with others on a deeper level. Additionally, literature encourages creativity and imagination, as students are inspired to envision alternative worlds, develop unique perspectives, and explore new possibilities.

In conclusion, literature in education plays a vital role in promoting reading engagement, language development, critical thinking skills, empathy, and cultural understanding. By using literature as a tool for learning, students not only acquire knowledge but also develop a love for reading that lasts a lifetime. It equips them with the necessary skills to excel in various subjects and lays the foundation for their future learning and personal growth. Discover the transformative power of literature in education at Exquisitive Education .

Building Background Knowledge and Lifelong Learning

Literature in education builds background knowledge and fosters a passion for lifelong learning, empowering students to become curious and knowledgeable individuals. By immersing themselves in literary works, students gain insights into diverse topics, historical events, and cultural phenomena. Whether exploring classic literature or contemporary works, students expand their understanding of the world and develop a broader perspective.

Through literature, students can explore different time periods, societies, and cultures, gaining a deeper appreciation for the complexities of human experiences. They develop empathy and understanding by connecting with characters who face various challenges and navigate different social and cultural contexts. Literature provides a window into different ways of life, teaching students to embrace diversity and cultivate a sense of respect for others.

Furthermore, literature fosters a love for lifelong learning. As students engage with different literary genres, they develop a thirst for knowledge and a desire to explore new ideas. Literature stimulates intellectual curiosity, encouraging students to seek new information, ask critical questions, and engage in meaningful discussions. The experiences gained from reading literature lay the foundation for a lifelong journey of learning and personal growth, equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

The Value of Literature Education

The value of literature education extends beyond the classroom. It equips students with essential skills such as critical thinking, analysis, and interpretation. Through close reading and textual analysis, students learn to analyze complex ideas, identify underlying themes and motifs, and make connections between different literary works. These skills are transferable across subjects, enhancing students’ overall academic performance.

Moreover, literature improves language and communication skills. By exposing students to rich vocabulary, diverse language styles, and intricate narrative structures, literature contributes to the development of strong reading and writing abilities. Students learn to express themselves effectively, articulate their thoughts and ideas, and engage in thoughtful discussions.

In conclusion, literature in education plays a vital role in building background knowledge, fostering a passion for lifelong learning, and nurturing critical thinking skills. It broadens students’ horizons, enhances their understanding of the world, and promotes empathy and cultural understanding. By encouraging students to explore different literary works, educators empower them to become well-rounded individuals who are curious, knowledgeable, and capable of reaching their full potential.

Literature’s Impact on Learning Outcomes: Evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa

Literature in education has proven to have a significant impact on learning outcomes, particularly in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa where learning poverty rates are high. Successful educational programs like EdoBEST in Nigeria have demonstrated the positive effects of literature on children’s educational development. Through the study of literature, students not only improve their language skills and vocabulary, but also enhance their critical thinking abilities and cultural understanding.

Reading literature allows students to explore diverse perspectives, cultures, and experiences, expanding their worldview and promoting empathy. It cultivates a love for learning and encourages students to think critically, analyze complex ideas, and problem-solve. By engaging with literary texts, students develop the necessary skills to excel in various subjects, ultimately improving their overall academic performance.

Moreover, literature education in prisons has shown promising results in reducing recidivism rates and providing inmates with a sense of purpose. By offering inmates the opportunity to explore different narratives and reflect on their own experiences, literature education fosters personal growth and increases the chances of successful reintegration into society. It equips inmates with valuable skills such as communication, self-expression, and empathy, which are crucial for their rehabilitation and future success.

In conclusion, literature plays a crucial role in unlocking the potential of learners and promoting personal development. Its impact on learning outcomes, especially in regions with high learning poverty rates like Sub-Saharan Africa, cannot be overstated. By incorporating literature into education, we can equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. To learn more about the benefits of literature in education, visit Exquisitive Education .

Literature Education in Prisons: Reducing Recidivism and Providing Purpose

Literature education in prisons plays a crucial role in reducing recidivism rates by providing inmates with a sense of purpose and fostering personal development. According to studies, prisoners who engage in literature programs are more likely to develop critical thinking and communication skills, which are essential for successful reintegration into society. By immersing themselves in literary works, inmates gain a deeper understanding of human experiences, empathy, and self-reflection.

A literature education program in prisons offers inmates an opportunity for intellectual growth and personal transformation. Through reading and analyzing various literary texts, inmates can explore different perspectives, challenge their own beliefs, and develop a broader worldview. This process not only helps them expand their knowledge but also equips them with essential social and emotional skills, such as empathy and self-awareness.

Moreover, literature education in prisons encourages creativity and self-expression among inmates. Engaging with literary works allows them to tap into their imagination and express their thoughts and emotions. This creative outlet enhances their sense of identity and helps them develop a positive sense of self. By fostering a love for literature, inmates can discover new passions and interests, which can significantly contribute to their personal growth and motivation for change.

Success Stories: Literature Programs in Correctional Facilities

These success stories highlight the transformative power of literature education in correctional facilities. Through literature, inmates can find hope, inspiration, and a path towards personal redemption. By empowering them with the tools necessary for self-reflection and personal growth, literature education offers a chance for rehabilitation and a brighter future.

In conclusion, literature education in prisons plays a critical role in reducing recidivism rates by providing inmates with a sense of purpose and fostering personal development. Through the exploration of literary works, inmates gain valuable skills, such as critical thinking, empathy, and creativity, which are vital for their successful reintegration into society. By investing in literature education programs, we can unlock the potential of inmates and create a pathway to a more rehabilitative justice system.

Literature in Education: Unlocking Learners’ Potential

Literature in education is a powerful tool that unlocks learners’ potential, nurturing their intellectual growth, and empowering them for success. Through the exploration of literary texts, students develop critical thinking skills, empathy, and cultural understanding. By engaging with diverse narratives and perspectives, they broaden their worldview and become more adept at analyzing complex ideas and problems.

Reading literature not only enhances cognitive abilities but also promotes social-emotional skills and creativity. It helps students develop emotional intelligence, empathy, and self-awareness, enabling them to navigate interpersonal relationships and understand diverse experiences. Additionally, literature sparks imagination and creativity, encouraging students to think outside the box and approach challenges with innovative solutions.

Furthermore, literature plays a significant role in promoting reading engagement and language development. Through exposure to different genres and styles, students develop a love for reading, which in turn expands their vocabulary and strengthens their communication skills. The rich language models in literary texts serve as valuable resources for language acquisition and proficiency.

As evidenced in Sub-Saharan Africa, where learning poverty rates are high, literature has a profound impact on educational outcomes. Successful programs like EdoBEST in Nigeria demonstrate how literature can maximize the potential of millions of children. In addition, literature education in prisons has proven to reduce recidivism rates by providing inmates with a sense of purpose and fostering personal growth.

In conclusion, literature in education paves the way for learners to unlock their potential. It cultivates critical thinking, empathy, cultural understanding, and personal development. By harnessing the power of literature, educators can empower students to become lifelong learners, equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in an ever-changing world.

In conclusion, literature in education plays a pivotal role in fostering critical thinking, empathy, cultural understanding, and personal development, making it an indispensable component of a well-rounded education. By studying literature, students enhance their critical thinking skills, as they analyze complex ideas, solve problems, and engage in deep thinking. Literature also promotes empathy, allowing readers to connect with diverse characters and gain a better understanding of different cultures and experiences.

Moreover, literature builds cultural capital by exposing students to a wide range of literary works that reflect various traditions, historical contexts, and perspectives. This exposure not only broadens their cultural understanding but also cultivates a sense of empathy towards others. Additionally, engaging with literature develops social-emotional skills, as students explore and understand different emotions, perspectives, and relationships.

Furthermore, literature in education sparks creativity and imagination, encouraging students to think outside the box and explore innovative ideas. It also enhances reading engagement, promoting a love for reading and expanding language development. Through exposure to different genres and language models, students acquire a rich vocabulary and improve their communication skills.

Importantly, literature in education builds background knowledge and supports lifelong learning. It equips students with a deep understanding of various topics, historical events, and cultural phenomena. This knowledge not only prepares them for academic success but also instills a love for learning and encourages continuous exploration of new ideas throughout their lives.

Moreover, literature’s impact goes beyond traditional educational settings. In Sub-Saharan Africa, where learning poverty rates are high, literature plays a crucial role in maximizing the potential of millions of children. Successful educational programs like EdoBEST in Nigeria have demonstrated the positive impact of literature on learning outcomes, paving the way for a brighter future.

Even in correctional facilities, literature education has shown significant benefits. By providing inmates with a sense of purpose and personal growth, literature reduces recidivism rates and helps individuals successfully reintegrate into society. It empowers them with the skills and knowledge needed to make positive changes in their lives.

Overall, literature has the power to unlock the potential of learners and promote personal development. It cultivates critical thinking, empathy, cultural understanding, and creativity, while also improving reading engagement, language development, and background knowledge. By recognizing the importance of literature in education, we can create a society that values lifelong learning and embraces the transformative power of literature.

Q: Why is literature important in education?

A: Literature is important in education because it unlocks opportunities and lays the foundation for future learning. It cultivates critical thinking, empathy, and broadens cultural understanding. Studying literature enhances language skills, promotes reading engagement, and builds background knowledge. It also has a positive impact on learning outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa and reduces recidivism rates in prisons.

Q: How does literature cultivate critical thinking and perspective taking?

A: Literature cultivates critical thinking by promoting deep analysis and problem-solving. It encourages readers to consider different perspectives and analyze complex ideas. By engaging with diverse literary texts, readers develop the ability to think critically and understand multiple viewpoints.

Q: What role does literature play in building cultural capital and empathy?

A: Literature builds cultural capital by introducing readers to different cultures, traditions, and historical contexts. It fosters empathy by allowing readers to connect with characters and understand their experiences and emotions. Through literature, readers gain a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and develop a sense of empathy towards others.

Q: How does literature enhance social-emotional skills and creativity?

A: Literature enhances social-emotional skills by nurturing emotional intelligence, empathy, and self-awareness. It encourages readers to engage with complex emotions and explore their own feelings. Additionally, literature sparks creativity and imagination by presenting unique narratives and challenging traditional thinking.

Q: How does literature promote reading engagement and language development?

A: Literature promotes reading engagement by exposing students to different genres and encouraging a love for reading. It provides rich vocabulary and language models that contribute to language development and communication skills. By immersing themselves in literary works, students develop strong reading and language skills.

Q: How does literature build background knowledge and support lifelong learning?

A: Literature builds background knowledge by expanding students’ understanding of various topics, historical events, and cultural phenomena. It encourages curiosity and a love for learning, fostering a lifelong passion for acquiring new knowledge and exploring diverse ideas.

Q: What is the impact of literature on learning outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa?

A: Literature has a positive impact on learning outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa, where learning poverty is high. Successful educational programs like EdoBEST in Nigeria have demonstrated the positive effects of literature on learning outcomes. By incorporating literature into education, it maximizes the potential of millions of children and improves their educational achievements.

Q: How does literature education in prisons reduce recidivism rates?

A: Literature education in prisons provides inmates with a sense of purpose, personal growth, and reduces reoffense rates. By engaging with literary works, inmates can reflect on their experiences and gain new perspectives. Literature education fosters a desire for personal development and enhances inmates’ chances of successful reintegration into society.

Q: How does literature unlock learners’ potential in education?

A: Literature unlocks learners’ potential by promoting personal growth, critical thinking skills, empathy, and cultural understanding. It equips learners with the necessary skills to excel in various subjects and lays the foundation for future learning. Studying literature in educational settings has long-term value and contributes to the overall development of individuals.

About The Author

Ethan Emerson

Ethan Emerson is a passionate author and dedicated advocate for the transformative power of education. With a background in teaching and a love for writing, Ethan brings a unique blend of expertise and creativity to his contributions on ExquisitiveEducation.com .His articles are a delightful mix of insightful knowledge and engaging storytelling, aiming to inspire and empower learners of all ages. Ethan's mission is to ignite the spark of curiosity and foster a love for learning in every reader.Ethan Emerson, is your companion in the realm of general education exploration. With a passion for knowledge, He delves into the intricate world of Education Expenses & Discounts , uncovering financial insights for your educational journey. From the vitality of Physical Education to the synergy of Education & Technology , Ethan's here to bridge the gap between traditional and innovative learning methods. Discover the art of crafting impressive Resume & Personal Documentation in Education , as well as insights into diverse Career Paths, Degrees & Educational Requirements . Join Ethan in navigating through a sea of Educational Courses & Classes , exploring the nuances of various Education Systems , and understanding the empowering realm of Special Education . With an eye on Teaching & Teachers , He offers a glimpse into the world of educators who shape minds. Let's unlock Studying Tips & Learning Methods that turn education into a delightful journey of growth with Exquisitive Education .

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2024 Theses Doctoral

How Art Works in Networks: A Mixed-Methods Study of Arts Education and Arts Educators in New York City Charter Schools Affiliated with Charter Management Organizations

Brown-Aliffi, Katrina

Using an explanatory sequential mixed methods design, this study aimed to contribute to an understanding of A) the availability of arts education programming in NYC during the 2022–2023 academic year at charter schools affiliated with Charter Management Organizations CMOs), and B) arts educators’ plans for retention and perceptions of professional satisfaction, network-level support, and school-level support. In this study, a CMO was defined as a non-profit operator that exists (as a business entity) separately from the charter schools it manages. Quantitative data was collected prior to qualitative data. In Phase 1 (quantitative data collection), an electronic survey of arts educators in CMO-affiliated schools in New York City (NYC) was conducted to measure job satisfaction, attitudes and opinions of perceived levels of support from networks and schools, and needs for further support. In Phase 2 (qualitative data collection), interviews were conducted with six arts educators to further explore the perceptions of support held by arts educators at schools associated with NYC-based CMOs. Emerging from the qualitative results were the educators’ concepts of and needs for support across three categories: structural support, peer support, and support for teacher development (including both lesson planning and lesson delivery). The roles of network-level leadership and school-level leadership (as a team and as individuals) in providing support across these three categories while also preserving teacher autonomy created a complex web of influences on charter sector teacher satisfaction and retention within the field of arts education at schools affiliated with CMOs for the teachers in this study, which has implications for theory, practice, and policy alike.

Geographic Areas

• New York (State)--New York
• Arts in education
• Arts--Study and teaching
• Art teachers--Attitudes
• Teachers--Job satisfaction
• Teacher development
• Charter schools
• Charter schools--Administration

This item is currently under embargo. It will be available starting 2029-05-14.

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New Delhi [India], July 1 (ANI): In an appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government, Chairman of PK Foundation Sundeep Bhutoria has asked for arts, culture and literature to be recognized as eligible for funds under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) scheme.

The Foundation supports arts, culture, literature and those involved in it.

The sector covering arts and literature tend to suffer from a paucity of funds for its support. PK Foundation, on its part, helps the artists and authors to promote their work.

Over the years, the Foundation has been assisting authors and artists to spread their work not only in India but abroad.

Companies in India are expected to set aside a small proportion of their funds to be used for Corporate Social Responsibility – CSR.

The rules in Section 135 of the Companies Act 2013 make it mandatory for companies of a certain turnover and profitability to spend 2 per cent of their average net profit for the past three years on corporate social responsibility activities.

The government has defined various areas where these CSR funds can be used with proper proof of such usage. The scheme has helped many areas such as education, health with an additional support from CSR.

If the companies were to donate small amount towards growth of arts culture and literature it could go a long way in supporting India’s art and culture. (ANI)

This report is auto-generated from ANI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.

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Greg Smedley-Warren teaches kindergarten in Nashville.

“The kids are so excited. It’s pure joy.”

Brycial williams teaches kindergarten in wynne, ark..

“I knew where my heart belonged.”

Dwayne taylor teaches kindergarten in frontenac, kan..

“Working with the littles, that’s where my passion lies.”

Boys are struggling. male kindergarten teachers are here to help..

By Claire Cain Miller

Photographs by Eric Ryan Anderson, Gabriella Angotti-Jones, Chase Castor, George Etheredge, JerSean Golatt, Gavin McIntyre, Alyssa Pointer, Whitten Sabbatini and Zack Wittman

Boys are falling behind in school. They are less likely than girls to be ready for kindergarten. They read at lower levels. They graduate from high school at lower rates. This gender gap in education has significantly widened just in the last generation.

One group is uniquely positioned to help put boys on the right track in their first year of formal schooling: men who teach kindergarten. Yet only around 3 percent of kindergarten teachers are men.

Many studies show that older boys benefit from having male teachers . There hasn’t been as much research on the youngest students and their teachers — in large part because there are so few male teachers in early education to begin with.

Still, it stands to reason that men who teach kindergarten can make a difference for boys, said Thomas S. Dee, a Stanford professor who has for decades researched the effect of teacher demographics on students.

We interviewed a dozen men with the job about being a rarity in their field. The teachers spoke about drawing on their own experiences as boys in school to address the challenges boys face today.

“They come in and you can already see — behaviorally, academically — they’re behind the girls,” said Kevin Clifford , 58, a kindergarten teacher in Yonkers . “Kindergarten is the basics, it’s the building blocks, so I want to be there for that.”

“They come in and you can already see — behaviorally, academically — they’re behind the girls,” said Kevin Clifford , 58, a kindergarten teacher in Yonkers. “Kindergarten is the basics, it’s the building blocks, so I want to be there for that.”

Kindergarten enrollment has declined since the pandemic, and enrollment is lower among low-income families. But nearly nine in 10 children in the United States attend kindergarten, which experts say is a crucial starting point for academic success.

Most children thrive with the female teachers who are the core of the profession, in kindergarten and beyond. But diversity in the profession may be increasingly important, especially for boys at earlier ages, researchers said.

Kindergarten is becoming more academic, gender gaps are opening earlier and more of the professionals in children’s lives are women, said Richard V. Reeves, author of “Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It.”

“I really worry that the very idea of educational success is becoming increasingly female-coded,” he said. If boys are “seeing education as not for them,” he said, “that’s the risk.”

First role models

One way male teachers make a difference is by relating to boys, like presenting material in a way that is more relevant to them or not succumbing to stereotypes, such as those about boys’ misbehavior or achievement in reading .

Mr. Clifford said that when he was disruptive in class as a young student, “it wasn’t that I didn’t understand.”

“My behavior was bad because I was bored,” he explained. “So I can personally relate to what the boys go through.”

There is also a role-model effect. Sometimes a teacher is the first man with a major presence in boys’ lives, as one in five children grow up without a father at home.

Dwayne Taylor , 47, a kindergarten teacher in Frontenac, Kan., was drawn to the job in part because he was raised by a single mother, without male role models. “I wanted to be that for future students,” he said.

Pedro Romanelli, Dallas

Research shows that children also benefit from teachers who are of the same race. One study found that having a Black teacher in elementary school increased college attendance for Black students, and another found that Latino students’ performance improved when schools had Latino teachers.

“I think it’s more important than the studies show,” said Pedro Romanelli, 55, a kindergarten teacher in Dallas.

Even students who aren’t in his class run to him in the halls or grab his hand, he said: “They’re always boys, and they’re always Latino. When they see someone who looks like them, they may see a path there.”

Keith Heyward Jr., 31, who teaches in Charleston, S.C., reads his class a book called “The King of Kindergarten,” about a Black boy on his first day of school. When a student in his class this year said, “That looks like me,” Mr. Heyward said, his eyes teared up.

He grew up playing classroom, pretending to be a teacher. Yet his own school experience was dispiriting; he was “not really feeling appreciated or seen,” he said. “I have a big personality, I talk a lot. Now I see why I got in trouble.”

“I try to be a voice for children who look like me, act like me, sound like me,” he said. “I often tell my parents, when I have those children who do express themselves like that, ‘Do not let your boys be diminished. Do not. The next thing you know, your child’s lost their voice.’”

Keith Heyward Jr., Charleston, S.C.

Emotional education

Longtime teachers say kindergarten is strikingly different today.

A positive development, particularly for boys , has been more focus on understanding emotions, for both children and teachers.

Social-emotional learning has given them vocabulary to express their feelings, said Greg Smedley-Warren, 45, a kindergarten teacher in Nashville.

Teachers have also learned to understand misbehavior as communicating a need for help, he said: “When someone’s acting out, you step back and you’re like, ‘What is it they need? What are they missing?’ rather than, ‘You’re being bad. Get out of my classroom.’”

Yet kindergarten has also become more academic and test-focused. Teachers in many states said there was much less time for play, physical education or recess — on some days, children didn’t play outside at all — and more time sitting at desks.

This is challenging for all young children, teachers said, but particularly for some boys, who tend to mature later than girls and are more active overall .

“We teach it, we test it, we move on,” Mr. Warren said. “I wish we could slow down and bring more play into our classrooms.”

He has no desks or chairs in his classroom — children “can sit, stand, wiggle” wherever they want. There’s a classroom trampoline, and each day ends with a dance party.

Greg Smedley-Warren,

Dwayne Taylor, Frontenac, Kan.

Howard Braden, Ocala, Fla.

Dwayne Taylor,

Frontenac, Kan.

Howard Braden,

Ocala, Fla.

In Howard Braden’s classroom in Ocala, Fla., the children learn phonics by forming their bodies in the shapes of letters before returning to their desks to write them.

“Their bodies aren’t really made to just stay in that chair all day long,” Mr. Braden, 53, said. “They need that movement.”

Expanding gender roles

Nearly all the men said part of their role as male teachers was to show students, especially boys, a different model of masculinity to prepare them for a world in which gender roles are less defined.

“We learn how to cook. We show respect for the custodial staff,” Mr. Taylor said. “There are no boy jobs and girl jobs. If there is a mess, we clean it up.”

Many of the men said that when they were growing up, their fathers were the disciplinarians and their mothers were the nurturers. While teaching kindergarten, they have had to take on a different role.

Daniel Saenz, 38, served as an Army lieutenant before teaching kindergarten in Midlothian, Texas. Of his disciplinary style, he said, “Simply giving them a look or raising my voice to a certain tone, they quickly understand that this authority figure is not messing around.”

But he has also learned to soften his approach. His teaching mentors, he said, “taught me what it is to really be a teacher, and that was to show empathy, to give a hug to students, remind them there is someone there for you.”

Empathy is something nearly all the teachers said was crucial to the job. For Jeffrey Towle, 36, who teaches in Long Beach, Calif., developing that skill has been a learning experience.

“I had a kid come today and say, ‘I love you, Mr. Towle ,’” he said. “To have that is so rewarding. It changes the way you see yourself.”

Jeffrey Towle,

Long Beach, Calif.

Daniel Saenz, Midlothian, Texas

Daniel Saenz,

Midlothian, Texas

“That ability to talk to them on that nurturing level was not my strong suit,” he said. “I have definitely grown in that way.”

Overcoming a stigma

There are many reasons that more men don’t teach kindergarten. A big one is stigma, the teachers said.

“It’s looked down upon for a man to want to spend his whole day with children,” said Riley Lyons, 44, who teaches in Atlanta.

Another obstacle, they said, is the pay . The median salary for the job, which requires a college degree and a teaching license, is $64,000, lower than comparable jobs requiring a degree.

Some of the male teachers said it was a particular barrier for men, because they felt there was a societal expectation that their salary support a family.

David Feldman, 47, a kindergarten teacher in St. Petersburg, Fla., said the pay was the main warning he would give to men considering the job. The trade-off, he said, is watching the growth kindergartners make by the end of the year, “when they are so proud of themselves.”

Sometimes, parents are wary of male teachers. Some kindergarten teachers said they took care not to let children sit on their laps or to help a student with a button unless a female teacher was present or they were standing in a hallway, so there would be no assumptions that they were behaving inappropriately.

Many states have teacher shortages, and researchers say men would benefit from pursuing careers in fast-growing caregiving occupations like teaching. Yet there has been no major national push for recruiting more men into early education.

“K through 3 is so formative in a young person’s life that it should be more of the focus” in recruiting male teachers, said Colin Sharkey, the executive director of the Association of American Educators. “It’s like unlocking a new market of potential educators.”

The male kindergarten teachers said that from their perspective, the fulfillment of the job generally outweighed the negatives.

Riley Lyons,

“I love that they’re just so sweet still and so curious, constantly asking questions, wanting to know more,” Mr. Lyons said.

David Feldman, St. Petersburg, Fla.

David Feldman,

St. Petersburg, Fla.

Mr. Saenz said he left his post-Army job in supply-chain logistics because he realized he wanted to help people instead.

“I have students come in knowing no letters, no sounds, no numbers, and now they’re writing complete sentences,” he said. “This is something they’re going to take with them the rest of their life. That right there is the greatest impact.”

An earlier version of this article misstated the name of an education group. It’s the Association of American Educators, not the American Association of Educators.

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