Thirteenth International Conference on The Arts in Society

Abstract

There is evidence that integrating the arts into school lessons in k-12 classrooms has many benefits for students including retention (Hardiman, 2003), improved engagement (Yazzie-Mintz, 2010), and deeper learning (Bamford, 2009; Ruppert, 2006). However, there is less research on the effects of integrating the arts into college classrooms. This pilot study will explore what using the arts (drama and visual arts) to support instruction has on the college student experience. Findings will be based on observations of classroom instruction, student surveys, and student interviews. Researchers hope findings may support greater understanding of how arts integration could be utilized more fully in higher education.