Art education and technology rock our world

If the results of standardised testing become the only measure of success in education we run the risk of our students missing out. This article (except below) explores the value of the arts in education from a mother’s perspective – a mother who watched her son blossom in immeasurable ways as he undertook experiences in a collaborative creative project.

“I know this project has value. I know it because I watch my son’s understanding shift. He sees himself and his classmates differently. He learns, through this time of working with others to make art, that they each have something unique to offer. He sees the world differently. States and countries once thought of as spots on a map are now populated with creative, fun people with whom he can exchange a smile or a song—people curious about the world, people like him.

He sees technology differently. It’s not just a source of entertainment, but a tool for real work and education and creative expression.

And he sees learning differently. My son’s class video-chatted with a local professional photographer to learn about photography. The photographer, Jeffrey Bennett, let the students direct the conversation. This shift in responsibility caused my son to pay more attention to and celebrate good questions. According to Bennett, some of the questions amazed him, and his answers amazed the students, creating a sense of community and delight.” Laura Tokie

Read more from Laura Tokie’s article ‘Art Education and Technology Rock Our World‘ here.

How the arts unlock the door to learning

‘Student achievement was down. Teachers were demoralized. Until a bold strategy —  integrating the arts into curricula — helped students embrace their learning and retain their knowledge. Today the faculty, staff, and students of Maryland’s Bates Middle School are crafting a whole new vision of school transformation.’  Read more from Mariko Nobori about how the arts unlock the door to learning.

A research based approach to arts integration

“At Bates Middle School in Annapolis, Maryland, arts integration has helped raise student achievement. Job-embedded professional development, differentiated arts instruction, and critical-thinking skills integrated into the curricula have been key to their success.”

“Teachers and staff report that arts integration has been one of the key reasons for the school’s improvement.”

Check out this article, ‘A Research-Based Approach to Arts Integration’ by Vanessa Vega to explore the success of the program at Bates and the research-based practices that have contributed to the success of arts integration at this school.