As an art instructor I am very happy to see brain studies actually proving what we as art teachers already know:  that students who study the fine arts (band and choir included) perform better academically.  This is because we "dwell" in the upper level thinking skills of problem solving, analysis, criticism, synthesis, and application.  In the past we have scrambled to impart information, whereas now we have validation from brain studies to teach concepts and technique over information.  How and where to access information with an awareness of what exists is more relevant to our students than rote memorization of specific information.  Consequently, we are having a ball!  My focus is on true learning and inspiring my students to desire and seek knowledge... to be their absolute best.  Starting this year I base all classroom decisions and change on what best serves my best students.  I focus, not on disciplining, but on engaging each and every student to learn more.  The artroom is very "user friendly" in that lessons are designed to serve the least experienced and/or learning challenged to the most experienced and/or gifted. 

Learning and the Fine Arts
Category	Topics	Last Post
Thoughts	2	7:30 PM Aug 26, 08

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