• Improved
performance in reading and math
"The
results of a voluntary survey of SAT test
takers reveals that students who take arts
courses have higher math, verbal and overall
SAT scores than students who do not take
arts classes.""Analysis of the
National
Educational Longitudinal Study
(NELS:88) by University of California
researchers shows a relationship between
arts involvement and academic achievement,
as indicated by better grades and improved
standardized test performance."
• Improved student engagement and
motivation in school
"A summary of the studies in
the Critical
Links
research compilation reveals a connection
between the arts and increased student
engagement and motivation, including
improved attendance and educational
aspirations"
"A series of seven studies in
the report
Champions of Change
consistently shows the power of arts
education to reach students who are
disengaged from school, and to help them
connect more effectively with their peers"
• Improved social and civic development
"Critical Links
studies also show that students exposed to
the arts gain more empathy and self-control,
and develop improved conflict-resolution and
social-tolerance skills"
"Skills that students gain
through arts education may be valuable for
civic education and the development of civic
competencies, especially civic skills and
dispositions.
Such
competencies include development of respect
and appreciation for other people’s views or
perspectives"
• Enhanced economic development and
workforce preparation
"The Creative Economy, which
includes industries such as architecture,
design, the arts, museums and the
entertainment industry, relies upon people
who can think creatively, adapt quickly to
new situations and problem-solve. This
industry, which is growing at a faster pace
than total U.S. business growth, increases
the demand for workers with the skills that
are gained through the arts in education"
• Improved school climate
"An evaluation of the North
Carolina A+ Schools program, a comprehensive
school reform initiative that includes arts education
in its reform strategies, supports the idea
that the arts can be integrated into the school curricula,
and can create a more positive school
culture while also strengtheningties to surrounding neighborhoods and
communities"
Read the entire report
