Some parents, teachers and students look down on arts education as something unimportant, especially when compared to academic subjects such as language, math and science. However, the value of arts education should not be underestimated because it can actually provide several benefits for the students.
The Education Fund shared some of the benefits of arts education for students. Hopefully, this list can help everyone have a better appreciation and understanding of arts education.
#WholeChild Resource 3: story @nytimes about starvation of arts in Bronx Brooklyn, areas of concentrated #poverty https://t.co/yLGH0KEGYa — Susan Ochshorn (@ECEPolicyWorks) April 4, 2016
1. Arts Education Improves School Performance
One of the biggest benefits of arts education for students is that it can actually improve their learning skills, school attendance, critical thinking skills and creativity. All of these are essential for a successful academic performance. "In fact, several recent studies have concluded that the creativity and innovation utilized in the artistic process will be highly valued by employers in the United States in the coming years as we continue to shift into a global economy," The Education Fund shares.
2. Arts Education Can Improve A Child's Creativity, Imagination And Self-Esteem
Nothing can explore and develop students' creativity and imagination better than arts education. Not everyone likes science, language or math. Many students actually are more interested and skilled at the different forms of art.
Being able to practice your passion, hobbies and interests can also develop your self-esteem. An example is a student at Stevenson Middle School named Cuauhtemoc Lara, who has a troubled childhood, but is motivated to stay at school because he enjoys and excels at arts education, The Columbian reports. "It's my favorite class," Lara explained.
3. Arts Education Is A Bridge Across Cultural Differences
One of the most important benefits of arts education for students is that it helps them appreciate and understand the different cultures and values of our very diverse society. "They become the shared link, the glue that shapes our understanding of how we see ourselves and each other," The Education Fund explains.
