Do you think art classes should be offered in elementary/middle schools?

1. 85

   InterestCapturedposted 13 years ago

   Do you think art classes should be offered in elementary/middle schools?
   
   Some people feel as if art classes are a waste of tax-payer's money, others feel that they are essential to proper child development, where do you stand?
   
   

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2. 80

   junksellerposted 13 years ago

   Absolutely. It not only is important for developing and growing different parts of the brain, but it can be an important way for kids to express themselves.

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3. 48

   bfenneposted 12 years ago

   After a lifetime of extensively researching art education I rely on data by Linda Silverman, that fully 1/3 of all students are visual learners and 2/3 prefer to learn visually.  Is it any wonder that our students are dropping out in ridiculous numbers; teachers are not teaching students with the right multiple intelligence. Linda has the world's largest database on Gifted and Talented students so this source is very reliable.
   
   All children from Kindergarten through middle school should have art as a permanent part of their education.  It is inequitable to offer only middle and high school students and not provide the base and the hook to keep kids in school. Often, students will skip other classes but come to the classes they feel they learn the most and also feel accepted; that is where art come in. The process of making art builds self-esteem in the child.
   
   If you reflect on what goods are produced in the USA you might have overlooked the fact that everything made needs an artist.  That makes the arts one of the biggest areas of employment in  the USA. We encourage creativity and innovation but cut the program that builds that process.
   
   Think about Einsteins quote about art in public school that cites the fact that by the end of high school it is a wonder that students have any creativity.  Art is one of the first languages and all else follows.

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4. 75

   Levertis Steeleposted 12 years ago

   If a child is gifted in art, schools should help to enrich the gift. Howevever, elementary teachers already do a great job of incorporating art into their instructions. Children learn early to color within lines, use appropriate colors, follow directions while coloring, choose colors to create, draw and color (create their family, pets, meals, clothes, etc.), water color on paper, finger paint, color shapes, and hundreds of other actitivies that become more challenging as the child moves up the levels. Teachers use these art forms to teach math, writing, reading and many other skills.
   
   Older children are encouraged to participate in illustrated writing contests; poster contests; school, district, and state reading and science fairs. When the child is in high school and college, if the interest is still there, he can take art classes.
   
   Many schools from the elementary level up have access to special programs, even specialized schools, that they present to students and parents when a child is gifted in the arts and sciences, for example. I think that many schools, along with parents, are doing a good job of using needs assessments, interest inventories, and other tools to help plan a child's educational program.
   
   Art classes may be a waste for some, but schools must consider each child's special gifts and needs, and build on that. Students and parents who are not interested should not be forced to take art classes that are given for the sake of becoming adept in the art of creating works. On the other hand, all children need to learn some art skills--shapes, for example, could help them in math, chemistry, science, etc. So, a lot of common sense should be used in making these decisions.
   
   I suppose someone who is interested could research a little, and make a hub. If I cross your hub, I will read it!

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