The Performing Arts in the School System

The performing arts are critical in the learning process. Modern educators acknowledge that there is no single method of learning. One learning theory that has gained increasing acceptance is that of psychologist Howard Gardner. Gardner's Multiple Intelligence Theory claims that humans learn not only through the linguistic and mathematical models of schooling but through seven intelligences (Gardner, 1985). These seven intelligences are: logical/mathematical, verbal/linguistic, visual/spatial, body/kinesthetic, musical/rhythmic, intrapersonal and interpersonal. Multiple Intelligence Theory challenges teachers to work from a student's strengths: "Because of the variety in learning styles, schools must teach students through all forms of intelligence." R

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dents interact with other gifted student artists in a professional learning environment. Tuition is often free or set at a nominal price. Students study a wide range of subjects. An example is the Pennsylvania state program for dance: "Students major in ballet, jazz, or modern dance while studying all three disciplines as well as improvisation, composition, dance history, dance theory, and career-related alternatives." Another indicator of the importance of the performing arts is the inclusion of arts education in the Goals 2000: Educate America Act. Passed in 1994, this educational initiative developed national standards for student assessments. The Act specifies that students should be able to communicate in four arts disciplines (music, visual arts, theater, and dance), communicate proficiently in at least one art form, and be able to relate arts knowledge and skills across the arts disciplines. In addition, the National Standards for Arts Education, also passed in 1994, contains interdisciplinary components. These educational initiatives demonstrate the value placed on arts education by the nation's top educators. When compared with other industrial nations, however, the United States lacks a long tradition of valu
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Approximate Pages = 31 (250 words per page)