I learned a great deal about the importance of art and music curriculum in our educational system. I did not find any negatives but adversely found a vast amount of information on how the arts enhance a child's development. All developmental domains have been effected in a positive way. Children learn more about social skills and the differences between cultures and ideals through music and art. Also, emotionally children are able to express themselves more freely if given the materials to draw or role play their conflicts.
“Research
shows that music improves spatial-temporal (abstract) reasoning, improves
cognitive development, enhances critical thinking skills, and increases social
development” (Cornett, 2011). I plan on advocating for art and music curriculum in Internship II and hope to make a difference in the lives of children and educators alike.
References
Cornett, C. E. (2011). Creating meaning through literature and the
arts: Arts integration for classroom teachers. Boston, MA: Allyn &
Bacon/Pearson.
Your research topic sounds very interesting and original. It is peculiar how art and music are usually the first to go in a curriculum that is pressed for time when they are so beneficial to students. Most children really enjoy art and music as well! I took a class that talked about seamlessly integrating art into all areas of the classroom and really enjoyed it. The children were doing math but using art as the way to solve the problem. It was really interesting. Good luck next semester and enjoy your time off!
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