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…

Maintains that the creation of the 1835 Select Committee on Arts and Manufactures and its report are significant milestones in the development and history of British art education. Argues that the current emphasis on art and design education in Britain and the United States can be traced to the work of this committee. (CFR)

Tracks the art education field's development of a national plan to promote growth and awareness. Political attacks and budget cuts in the last decade have created an unprecedented movement built on cooperation and collaboration between local and national educators. (MJP)

Asserts that it is ironic to discuss issues of control of arts education policy at a time when national and state leaders describe the public education system as out of control. Examines litigation as an "engine" or driving force of the influence and control of arts education policy from three perspectives. (CFR)

The papers in this volume begin with an editorial by Patricia L. Stuhr, "The Changing Faces of the Arts and Learning Research SIG and Its Journal". It is followed by 11 articles: (1) "Novice-Expert Differences in Understanding and Misunderstanding Art and Their Implications for Student Assessment in Art Education" (Judith Smith…

Maintains that a more thorough understanding of the complex relationship between state government and local schools would greatly benefit arts educators. Presents an examination of the structure of this relationship in Massachusetts as a model. Examines government funding, staffing, delegation of powers, and various shared responsibilities. (MJP)