Learning Through an Arts-Integration Program: The Side x Side Program Evaluation

• In Event: Impacts of Arts Inclusion and Integration

Abstract

This paper will discuss the first year findings from a two-year quasi-experimental study to determine the impact of the Side x Side arts-integration program on teachers, teaching artists, and elementary school children. The study investigates the evidence that the program is positively impacting (1) teachers knowledge and preparedness to teach academic content with the support of expert teaching artists, (2) teaching artist knowledge and preparedness to teach arts-based lessons that integrate academic content, and (3) that students improve in their motivation to learn and interest in art, as well as their mathematics and science skills. Findings suggest that several key indicate that the program is having some positive impact on participants.

Authors

• Kelly A. Hrenko, University of Southern Maine

• Ashley E. Lewis Presser, Education Development Center, Inc.

• Peter Tierney-Fife, Education Development Center, Inc.