In the light of a decision taken in April 2009 that the arts will be included in a projected national curriculum it seems relevant to examine "First We See: The National Review of Visual Education," which was completed in August 2008. That Review recommends the development of a visual education curriculum for the compulsory years of schooling.…

In this paper, the author explains why programs or potential programs designed to serve education in music and the other arts should be evaluated on the basis of breadth of coverage of standards-based skill and knowledge, of depth of coverage of that skill and knowledge and on the proportion of a given student population that they reach. Those who…

Asserts that testing is widely accepted and politically supported in Canada. Examines why there should be testing in the arts; what should be tested; who makes the tests, takes the tests, and benefits from them; and how frequently students should be tested. Concludes by outlining issues for consideration by policymakers. (PAL)

Describes two approaches to educational change: (1) the linear, input-output model that focuses on the output of academic achievement measured by standardized tests; and (2) the ecological model that focuses on the school as an ecosystem composed of classroom ecosystems. Discusses four reasons why the arts are necessary for the renewal of schools.…

Explores time, distance, focus, and excellence within the context of art and arts education policy and the relationships among them. Raises several questions for policy makers related to attracting/keeping arts teachers, helping students learn the unique lessons of art, and maintaining necessary policy positions in a dynamic environment. (CMK)

Highlights the issues that have shaped the way arts education is being practiced in Australian schools; in particular, how arts education is viewed in a cross-curricular perspective and how the arts relate to the key competencies and vocational education. Recommends that educators advocate the contributions each of the arts make to student…

Stresses the importance of developing universal music education and the role of the National Standards for Arts Education. Addresses obstacles to providing quality music education to students in urban and rural districts. Provides background information on partnership models along with the means for creating a plan for achieving universal music…

Maintains that since the 18th century an intellectual schism has developed between the U.S. public and specialized academic and artistic communities. Argues that art educators can work to correct this by serving as translators for those who lack fluency in the critical language of the arts. (MJP)

Asserts that the dialectic between excellence and equity in art education is generally expressed as an "either/or" situation. Argues that curricula and assessments can be designed to challenge artistically talented students and also serve the needs of all students. Concludes that both universal and relative social contexts are important. (MJP)

Provides a thorough examination of the process through which the Canadian Society for Education through Art (a volunteer organization) developed a comprehensive national policy and their efforts at implementation. Discusses the considerations, politics, and controversies involved in policy positions regarding teacher education, multicultural…

Presents an interesting meditation on the journey of art from private vision, appreciated by a few wealthy patrons and scholars, to the realm of public enterprise. Examines some of what has been gained and lost in this process. Provides an overview of the post World War II development of art education. (MJP)

Charts a step-by-step path from the pedagogical theories of teacher education to an effective and engaging method of classroom instruction using excerpts from Ernest Hemingway's "For Whom the Bell Tolls," as illustrative guideposts. Provides cogent, insightful, and productive ideas for improving classroom instruction. (MJP)

Discusses the validity, reliability, and utility of portfolio assessment. Examines the differences between the application of portfolio assessment in the visual arts and traditional subjects. Although generally supportive of portfolio assessment, maintains that widespread acceptance of educational innovation is often difficult and compromised.…

Maintains that French educational policy towards art education is hampered by divergent agendas and competing educational directives. While the Ministry of Education supports "education for all," the Ministry of Culture promotes "education of a cultural elite." Discusses the philosophical and political conflicts that created this split. (MJP)

Discusses the inherent conflict that exists between the tendency of Israeli schools to promote uniformity and their current mission to socially integrate immigrant children. A multicultural class production of "The Ugly Duckling" exemplifies how performing and visual arts can facilitate integration and acceptance. (MJP)