Sixteenth International Conference on the Arts in Society

Abstract

Scholarly research shows how the arts are often marginalised due to a focus on improving literacy outcomes in schools. This paper shares data from a large scale project on the arts and literacy. Interviews and classroom observations revealed that the arts feature important and distinct literacies not found in other subject areas. These include specific aesthetic-artistic literacies important for students’ personal, social, and cultural development. Without these literacies we may be at risk of offering limited opportunities for students to experience holistic education. The paper offers some recommendations including a framework for improved practice in schools.