The Future of Art Education

The future of art education is indeed in jeopardy due to the large budget cuts across the country. Along with a greater emphasis on core curriculum, high stakes testing is threatening the art programs in all too many school districts. Also, as was pointed out earlier in the site, in many cases parents are ignorant of the proposed budget cuts until it is too late. Part of the answer then is to raise awareness across the country on the value of an arts education. It is hoped that this site does indeed contribute to raising that awareness and promote further research by those who visit it. There are currently many foundations that are working hard to raise money in support of the arts in schools. The National Endowment for the Arts is just one of many that are working for this great cause. (For more information go to www.nea.gov) Another way to improve appreciation and understanding for the arts is through the educators in classrooms across the country. Adejumo (2002) suggests five ways that this can be done: * Talking about the nature and content of art with students. * Promoting the transfer of implicit knowledge through decentralized instruction. * Exposing students to experts as role models in the visual arts. * Facilitating direct observation of artists and their works in society. * Seeking the support of art professionals and organizations through partnerships. By implementing these principles educators can end student ignorance about art and its value. Students can learn to appreciate are for more than just its aesthetic qualities. Giving students contact with actual artists in the community can show children what tangible careers they can have as artists and promote the field as more than just a fun hobby. If students observe artists and their works in society, they can further appreciate the way that art permeates almost every aspect of life. They can see the rich history of artistic movements by seeing actual pieces from different time periods in their own community and learn to see the architecture as more than just a functional building. By teaching the children of today about art, and giving them opportunities to create their own, it is ensuring that the rich heritage of art will be passed down to the next generation. Appreciation of different cultures, sharing a common human experience, and marking significant points in history are all part of the amazing function that art gives to society. Through everything from traditional art classes to summer camp programs, the arts provide a way to promote children’s interest in learning about the world. Hopefully, in the future further funding can be provided from the government for art education programs and more people can experience the value of art in their lives.