Incorporating the arts into classroom learning has a positive effect on children’s interest in learning as has been established in many studies. Traditional teaching approaches do not always reach students who are naturally attracted to visual and oral stimuli.
Using the arts at first attracts their attention because something different is happening. This stimulation activates their ‘right brain’ which develops their creativeness and willingness to think more inventively. Traditional approaches often engage primarily the ‘left brain’ which is verbal, analytical, logical, rational and linear.
The arts have a unique capacity for developing the right brain. This works whether there is arts programming in the classroom or a student is engaged in learning to master an instrument. When there are stronger connections between the left and right brain, students are able to engage in creative problem solving and analysis.
Literacy coach at Langston E.T.A. Magnet in Hot Springs said that “Arkansas Learning Through The Arts is a remarkable non-profit organization. Their dynamic activities along with explicit lesson plans are designed to spark interest from all variety of learners.”
Charity Chapin, 2nd grade teacher at Fountain Lake, said that she was “amazed at the words the students wouldn’t normally use.” She had one student who never participates in class suddenly responding to the artist The next day he brought a song he wrote and wanted to perform it to the class.
