Learning and the ArtsThe arts encompass topics such as music, dance, drama, architecture, visual arts, culinary arts, and literature. The arts have been underrepresented in traditional educational set

Learning and the ArtsThe arts encompass topics such as music, dance, drama, architecture, visual arts, culinary arts, and literature. The arts have been underrepresented in traditional educational settings and are often the first area to get cut when budgets decrease. However, the arts have many cognitive, social, emotional and developmental benefits to the learner and are making their way back into the classroom with support from neuroscience. “The arts...are a collection of skills and thought processes that transcend all areas of human engagement. When taught well, the arts develop cognitive competencies that benefit learners in every aspect of their education and prepare them for the demands of the 21st century” (Jossey-Bass Reader, 2007, p. 333).  Fischer , K. W., Immordino-Yang, M. H., & , (2008). The Jossey-Bass reader on the brain and learning. (1st ed.). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

• Do you feel the arts being embedded in the classroom benefits curriculum? If so, in what specific ways do you believe the impact of the arts improves student learning and behavior (either in the classroom or another professional role)?  
• Discuss the specific brain areas and cognitive benefits of the arts.  
• What can you do in your classroom or professional role to facilitate the arts? If not, why not?

Your journal should be approximately one-to two- pages in length, not including a cover page, and formatted according to APA guidelines.