The importance of teaching art is equal to the importance of teaching math, science and English. Because the results of art instruction are not quantifiable, it is often given less consideration than other subjects. However, studying and creating art fosters intellectual growth and positively effects a student's ability to master other subjects.
Definition
Art instruction traditionally involves examining and producing works of visual art, including drawings, paintings, collages and murals. The arts as a field also includes subjects such as dance, music and theater.
Function
Instruction in the arts is intended to enhance a student's decision-making, problem-solving, teamwork, communication and self-discipline skills. Because art involves self-expression, it often enhances the self-esteem and self-confidence of its practitioners.
Significance
According to the U.S. Department of Education, the arts deserve to be a central component of any student's curriculum. Art rewards students in unique ways, providing them with a means for intuitive, nonlinear expression. Instruction in art benefits many students from economically-disadvantaged environments as well as those who have trouble processing information in a traditional sense.
Research
A 1998 study conducted by James Cattaral for the Arts Education Partnership (AEP) shows that a sample population of 25,000 middle- and high-school students instructed in art perform better on standardized tests. A study led by Judith M. Burton for the AEP suggests students at schools with high exposure to the arts have stronger creativity and self-concept skills than students at schools lacking arts programs.
Controversy
Detractors of teaching art claim it is not an academic subject but an extracurricular activity. The notion that skills learned through the arts can be transferred to areas like math or science remains contested. Unlike reading, science and math, skills gained through participation in the arts are not measured by the federal government. For these reasons, arts programs are typically the first to be eliminated by schools facing a budget crisis.
