Arts education has been recognized for its positive outcomes, including academic achievement and social engagement (Pepper et al., 2022, p. 264). Recent research has highlighted the importance of culturally relevant and sustaining approaches to promote equitable arts learning experiences. The concept of connected learning is aligned with the goals of equity and creativity in education. Research conducted by Peppler, Dahn, and Ito (2022) explores the integration of connected learning and arts education, which proposes a connected arts-learning framework with significant advantages. Here are six compelling reasons why teachers should adopt connected arts learning in their classrooms.
1. Cultivates Interest-Driven Learning
Connected learning is an approach to teaching that focuses on engaging students in topics of their interest (Pepper et al., 2022, p. 265). This approach is centered around providing a framework for creating educational experiences that are equitable, learner-centered, and promote creativity. Connected arts learning prioritizes student interests, empowering them to pursue their passions and explore their creativity. By aligning educational experiences with students' interests, teachers can create engaging and meaningful learning environments that stimulate curiosity and motivation.
2. Expands Notions of Creativity
Connected arts learning encourages students to explore diverse forms of artistic expression (Pepper et al., 2022, p. 265). It challenges traditional notions of creativity and skill by recognizing the impact of social media platforms and online communities on shaping creative practices. Through this approach, students are encouraged to broaden their understanding of what it means to be innovative and to embrace both traditional disciplines as well as new media and digital technologies. Connected arts learning promotes innovation and encourages students to think beyond conventional boundaries.
3. Promotes Academic and Social Outcomes
Studies have demonstrated that there is a strong connection between participating in arts and achieving better academic performance (Pepper et al., 2022, pp. 270-271). When students engage in arts, it emphasizes the significance of their interest-driven learning, which helps them stay motivated, engaged, and have a sense of belonging. Integrating arts into the curriculum can enhance students' cognitive skills, executive functioning, and overall academic performance. Connected arts learning not only contributes to academic success but also helps to improve students' social skills. Collaborative art projects and creative exploration are great ways to help students develop crucial skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills prepare them for success both academically and socially.
4. Promotes Civic and Community Engagement
Connected arts learning highlights the correlation between arts involvement and civic engagement (Pepper et al., 2022, pp. 272-273). By participating in community-based art activities, students can delve into intricate social problems, cultivate a sense of control, and communicate with their peers and mentors. Incorporating arts into community projects enables students to make a significant contribution to social change while enhancing their creative and critical thinking abilities. Connected arts learning extends beyond the classroom, empowering students to engage with their communities and effect positive change. Through community-based art projects and social activism, students develop a deeper understanding of social issues and their role as active citizens.
5. Expands Career Opportunities
The digital age has opened up a vast array of career opportunities for young individuals who are passionate about the arts. A connected arts learning framework emphasizes the importance of preparing students for careers in these evolving fields by fostering their occupational identity and providing access to mentorship and networking opportunities (Pepper et al., 2022, p. 274). Connected arts learning equips students with the skills, confidence, and networking opportunities needed to pursue careers in diverse fields such as digital media, design, and entertainment.
6. Fosters Supportive Relationships and Identity Development
Connected arts learning is a practical approach to facilitate supportive relationships and promote identity development through artistic expression (Pepper et al., 2022, p. 270). This framework allows students to delve deeper into their cultural heritage, express their unique perspectives, and establish a strong sense of identity within a community of peers and mentors. These relationships can be established through mentorship programs or peer networks, which offer young people the guidance and encouragement necessary to explore their interests and voices. Connected arts learning also advances equity and diversity within the arts education landscape by creating inclusive and nurturing learning environments.
Conclusion
In today's world, education has become more complex. However, connected arts learning provides a promising framework for promoting creativity, equity, and community engagement (Pepper et al., 2022, pp. 264-265). By incorporating the principles of connected learning into arts education practices, teachers can empower students to explore their interests, develop supportive relationships, and achieve their full potential as artists and learners. As we continue to gain a better understanding of arts education in the digital age, it is crucial to adopt innovative approaches that prioritize the needs and aspirations of each student. Through connected arts learning, we can create a more inclusive and dynamic arts education ecosystem that celebrates the diverse talents and voices of our students.
References:
Pepper, K., Dahn, M., & Ito, M. (2022). Connected Arts Learning: Cultivating Equity Through Connected and Creative Educational Experiences. Review of Research in Education, 46(1), 264–287. https://doi.org/10.3102/0091732X221084322
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