Policy Paradox: Accountability in Arts Ed
A policy paradox describes the difference between policy and practice. A state may have robust policies related to arts education on the books, but school district reality might tell a different story. In the field of arts education, what is the relationship between policy and practice? How are states held accountable to ensure local education agencies comply with the law? And, finally, can we transform the notion of accountability from a compliance score to a demonstration of value? As with everything arts ed, it’s complicated.
Take the Win: Everyday Advocates for Arts Ed
Arts ed advocates of every generation since the 1970’s have had one eye on the future and one on the immediacy of the moment. We have worked collectively to garner many wins—small and large, local and national—that have fueled progress in the field. It’s important to acknowledge and celebrate every success.
Art and Awe
Once thought an emotion that was beyond measurement, awe is now studied as a distinct emotion that can be measured. It is also proving a benefit to mental and physical health. In our quest to prove value for the arts in education, we overlook the awe factor that arts learning can inspire. In linking arts learning to academic outcomes, higher test scores, or workforce readiness, we forget about awe.
The Road Ahead for Arts Ed: It’s Wilder Than You Think
Arts education is poised to take center stage. Human creativity—what distinguishes us from artificial intelligence—will take the spotlight if we work together to make it so. This article explores opportunities in policy development and accountability, research and data, and expanding the role of media arts.
Start From Where You Are: Advocacy Findings
Advocacy for arts education has not been studied as a field per se. We can point to successful advocacy campaigns as case studies; yet we know little about the larger question of what works and why. What I thought might be a dry academic endeavor became a process of discovery. A synthesis of over 60 studies and publications is the basis for what works in advocacy, case-making, and systems change.
New Resource: Case-making and System Changes
In collaboration with Creative Generation, we offer a timely resource titled Case-making and Systems Change in Arts & Cultural Education.
Systems Change in Arts Education
The fifth article in the series Case-making and Systems Change in Arts and Cultural Education, expands on the theme of Advocacy for the Sector, describing how history has shaped the system of arts education, with a review of the components of our current system.
The Art of Strategic Communications
‘Strategic communications’ is a term describing an intentional and targeted messaging plan that is linked to overarching goals. The article places strategic communications in the context of arts and cultural education.
The Value of Multiple Perspectives in Advocacy
This article underscores the importance of advocacy that sees the larger system while working within a local context. Effective advocacy is accomplished by understanding first where you are, then embracing perspectives beyond your own. In collaboration with Creative Generation, this article is part of Case-making and Systems Change in Arts & Cultural Education.
Recruiting Students: Back to Basics
We have all spent more time in our kitchens in the past year, which can be a good thing or too much of a good thing. I’ve come to appreciate that satisfying meals can be made with a limited number of ingredients; no fancy equipment or mad chef-y skills required.