When programs are cut from the budget, the arts are usually the first to go. This means schools remove their art programs, music programs, etc in order to save money. This can end up hurting students in the long run, as all creative outlets get removed from the classroom. This also affects the students sense of place and turns school into a place they do not want to be.
In the article we read this week, we learned the importance music education plays in students sense of self. Music connect students to their culture, their interests, and their beliefs. Music can be used to engage students with the curriculum, issues in the world and more. By not utilizing music in the classroom and the community, we do a great disservice to the students.
As a teacher, I will connect students to their sense of self through music. By allowing students to perform and express themselves through music, a sense of self is developed. It connects students to their culture and community and makes school a place where they are heard. I will use the students interest to help them engage. This could mean using sports to draw their attention, playing games, books, anything my students are into.
Using the students personal interests makes school more entertaining. When the content is entertaining, students want to engage more and try hard to understand it. I think it is very important to use what matters to the student so they want to listen and want to learn. If interests are not utilized, it makes the content boring and makes students uninterested.
Hi Laina, I do agree with your statement about art being the first subject/course cut. I have the same view as you do when it comes to music in the classroom helping students express themselves as well as connect to their inner selves such as culture and interests.
Hey Laina, I really enjoyed your ideas and perspectives on how music can be implemented into our classrooms! How would you say that you express your sense of self through music? As an Arts Education student it was great to hear some of your thoughts on music education.
Hi Laina, Great blog post on your understanding of the importance of music education in students lives and how it can connect them to their sense of self and culture. Your commitment to using students personal interests to engage them in the curriculum is a great approach and shows your dedication to making school a place where students feel heard and valued.