All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.
Pablo Picasso
“I’m enough of an artist to draw freely on my imagination. Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited; imagination encircles the world.”
Albert Einstein
Posts, tweets and comments continue to validate the need for arts education in schools. It will expand creativity and those qualities are needed in business and science. It only makes sense. Why would this be bad–not aligned directly to the test?
Well, here is the good news. Testing is changing. Ten states are exempt from NCLB mandates in testing and allowed to use their own measurements for student achievement. Here is the open door opportunity.
I believe that true creativity in all forms can keep students engaged. It is not just arts and crafts even though children like arts and crafts. Some do not. They can still be given a problem to solve or asked questions to come up with their own question and do the inquiry. Creativity goes far beyond crayons, colored pencils and glue. Children can learn from a young age to apply the scientific method and use their creativity and imagination to find answers. Teachers should be facilitators and ask the questions that guide the students to then ask their own questions and find solutions. In this type of learning teachers will be the catalyst for further knowledge. Research will enable information and conclusion. Students will learn the basics that they must learn, such as math facts and correct grammar, in order to progress and communicate results. Effective teaching is irreplaceable. Instruction is key, but what comprises that instruction must evolve to meet our current world. Imagination, differentiation and creativity must find their way back into the classroom. Teachers hold the key to igniting the spirit within all children to learn and create.
Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try!
Dr. Suess
Dr. Suess
Hi Ruth–
I really like your blog and I have added it to my favorites. I plan to drop in frequently! I agree with you about arts education. My particular focus is the educational uses of drama. Please keep on writing. I know it can be a challenge to keep the posts coming, but it’s much appreciated!
RMF
Thanks Rosalind for your feedback. I appreciate it and please keep reading! I am supportive of drama and its use in all of arts education. Perhaps that is a good subject for a future post? RC