This article charts the influence of American accreditation policies on postsecondary arts education practices. Some commentators suggest that accreditation is a standards- and evidence-based process. I argue that trust is at the center of concerns about assessment in higher education, especially in the arts. The purpose of this article is to…

In times of difficulty, it is easy to see what many policymakers value. It would seem that many of them view the arts as a noncrucial element of a child's school curriculum. They want to cut music because they do not value music for its own sake, nor can they see how music could possibly help students in math, reading, or science. But what do the…

This article explores the process of using lessons learned about high quality, effective arts education programs to help local educational leaders and practitioners create their own policy statements. It raises questions about policy implications from those lessons and connects them to the readers' own experience. It provides an intellectual…

This paper examines and reports on beginning generalist teacher self-efficacy, which Bandura (1997) suggests plays an important part in student outcomes. In 2008, 201 beginning generalist teachers throughout the state of Queensland, Australia, participated in a study that aimed to provide a snapshot of current perceptions towards support in…

This volume examines the way individuals think about objects and events in the world. These thoughts specify a priori assumptions that indicate what will be considered beautiful, valuable, and good. Decisions made about these matters determine what actions will be taken in regard to them. The continuous change that historically characterizes art…

Describes the design elements and functions of a new creative and performing arts building in a private preparatory school in Michigan. (MD)

This essay addresses the ethical justification for arts education as a component of equal education. The paper traces evolution of equal education opportunity ideas in general and specifically as equal opportunity for arts education. While it is currently considered inequitable to provide an arts education to some and deny it or provide it in…

A school district and community endeavor brought a fine arts facility to Byron Center, Michigan. The Van Singel Fine Arts Center includes gallery space as well as a performing arts theater. Private donations purchased pianos and the acoustical shell. Academic results in the classroom include increases in average ACT scores for 5 consecutive years.…

Ten not-so-serious recommendations for policymakers based on the rationale that art education takes time away from the classes that prepare students for standardized tests. (Author/MLF)

Reviews the purposes and programs of the Extensions Division of the Department of Education of a metropolitan museum. Surveys services provided to schools. Gives a sample lesson plan. Highlights thematic exhibitions at the museum. Considers education by means of the art object as the primary goal of the Extensions Division. (CW)

Basic policy questions are offered to help guide efforts to formulate policy for art education in the schools. A view of art education that is responsive to these questions and examples of policy recommendations that have not addressed basic policy considerations are discussed. The central purpose and place of the arts in education is reiterated.…

Maintains that the development of discipline-based art education (DBAE) was based in large part on the earlier work of Harry S. Broudy. Explains Broudy's view that aesthetics education once reserved for the elite should be part of the education of every citizen. Describes links between Broudy's work and lessons developed as part of DBAE. (CFR)

Describes the purposes and programs of the Honolulu Academy of Arts. Promotes the Socratic method in museum education. Details the docent training program at the museum. Stresses the philosophy that the object is the message. (CW)

The 'back-to-basics' movement has concerned many art educators. Recent legislation in Florida has ensured fine art programs in the elementary and secondary school years and strengthened the art teacher certification requirements. (DF)

Describes the programs and philosophy of the Art Institute of Chicago. Stresses its educational functions and the provisions of access to the museum collection as its primary mission. (CW)