Students can learn about the same subjects in different ways. They can learn to memorize facts and figures without any outside context, or lessons can incorporate additional perspectives. One way to help expand students’ understanding of the material they are learning and the world around them is by integrating the arts into their education. Read on to learn about the different ways the arts enhance learning.

Deeper Understanding and Retention

In early learning, kinesthetic assignments are common, as students are learning how to use items like crafting supplies, crayons and pencils to create something new. As students grow older, integrating arts into their learning might look more like relating a period of history to powerful art or music that further illustrates the time period. All of these lead to a deeper understanding of core subjects, allowing students to see them from multiple perspectives.

Stronger Critical Thinking and Problem-solving

When the arts are integrated into core subjects, students are challenged to think differently. Viewing multiple perspectives leads to better critical thinking, rather than black-and-white thinking that can come from learning purely through facts and figures. This makes it easier for students to approach problems creatively and feel empowered to solve them.

Communication and Collaboration Skills

The arts are all about communication and collaboration. Arts classes encourage students to find ways to improve on their creative work, which often happens by a combination of imitation and practice. Visual art students learn to critique each other’s work in a constructive way, making each project collaborative. Music and acting students learn techniques that help them improve their crafts, then practice those to hone their skills.

Confidence, Belonging, and Student Voice

Arts classes can be humbling at first, especially when students do not feel naturally talented. However, as students see the power of practice to help them improve, their confidence often increases. With every project or performance, students work together toward similar goals, giving them a sense of accomplishment and belonging. The arts allow students to express their individuality, even in a room full of students with similar interests and skills.

Real-world Readiness

Integrating arts and education helps students learn crucial soft skills, helping them prepare for the real world. For those looking to pursue a career in the arts, classes in these subjects can give them opportunities to preview life after graduation by building portfolios, participating in exhibitions, giving performances and participating in client-style projects.

At North Tampa Christian Academy, we believe the arts are valuable to all students, whether or not they decide to pursue creative careers after graduation. Students at our Tampa private school thrive creatively, academically and spiritually in a project-based learning environment. Faculty and families work together to inspire leadership through Christian innovation. Contact us today to learn more.

When most people think of education, the first things that come to mind are subjects like math, science and reading. However, for many students, there’s more to life than mastering numbers and memorizing facts. These students often need encouragement to break out of their shells, and studying the arts can do just that. The arts are just as important as STEM subjects when it comes to developing a full understanding of the world around us. Here are a few ways students benefit from the arts being part of their education.

Meaningful Collaboration

Making art among other students, whether it’s on the canvas or on the stage, gives students the feeling that they’re part of something. They collaborate with other students, even while working on solo projects. This teaches them communication skills that they might not learn in a strictly academic setting. They learn not just to communicate their thoughts but also their feelings, which leaves room for deeper, more meaningful collaboration with others.

Observation Skills

All art is inspired by something. Students with artistic gifts and hobbies become aware of their surroundings and allow themselves to be influenced by the world around them. Through their creative ventures, they often observe things that others don’t notice. This can range from their own thoughts and feelings to changes in their surroundings.

Self-Expression

Expressing yourself is hard, especially when you’re learning about who you are and how you feel. While self-expression seems like the obvious benefit of arts in education, it shouldn’t be downplayed. Learning how to express yourself, especially for artistic children who can struggle with other outlets, can open up a world of possibilities.

Willingness to Take Risks

Art has a unique ability to inspire students to try new things. Every time they explore a new medium, a new genre, or even a new character, they’re immersed in a new world they never knew was there. For many artists, this willingness to dive into new challenges translates to more confidence in life beyond art.

Enhanced Cultural Understanding

Every culture creates art in some way, shape or form. From the beginning of time, and all around the world, art has been a fundamental part of the human experience. By studying the arts, students gain an understanding and appreciation of other cultures and perspectives.
The more they learn about different styles and cultural customs, the more well-rounded they become as artists and citizens of the world.

At North Tampa Christian Academy, we encourage students to learn about and explore the arts. Students at our Tampa private school thrive creatively, academically and spiritually in a project-based learning environment. Faculty and families work together to inspire leadership through Christian innovation. Contact us today to learn more.

How Integrating Arts in Education Enhances Learning