Previous Projects | Arts, Humanities, & Civic Engagement Lab

Educational Benefits of Arts Partnerships

Overview The recent wave of test-based accountability reforms has negatively impacted the provision of K-12 arts educational experiences. Advocates contend that, in addition to providing intrinsic benefits, the arts can positively influence academic and social...

Cultivating Interest in Art During Early Childhood

Overview Despite a growing body of literature examining the effects of arts exposure and participation for youth, little is known about the development of attitudes toward art in early childhood. In this study, we used an experimental research design to investigate...

Arts Education Partnerships

Overview The formation of arts-based school-community partnerships has become a popular strategy for addressing declines in arts resources and opportunities for K-12 students. The most successful programs tend to take the form of a coalition that links cultural...

Educational Benefits of Visiting an Art Museum

Overview A randomized study involving over 10,000 students randomly assigned to visit an art museum. Findings include increases in cultural capital, critical thinking, empathy, and tolerance. Resources: The Educational Value of Field Trip: Education Next Learning to...

Teaching History through Theater

Overview Faced with accountability pressures and limited resources, education policymakers make difficult choices regarding school curricula. In recent years, studies have documented a decreased emphasis in arts and humanities instruction. One potential way for...

Holocaust Education and Civic Outcomes

Overview Preparing students to be effective citizens is a longstanding goal of public education. Historical content provides illustrative opportunities for civic learning. Teaching about the Holocaust exemplifies this approach. Employing an experimental research...