The Enlightening Effect of Theater Art Education on Children

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The Enlightening effect of theater art education on Children

Abstract

Theater education supports the educational system, and this is the reason that so many schools have adopted this form of art education. Similarly, art education is meant to boost the cognitive functions of the child during their developmental stages. Nevertheless, teaching theater education in schools creates the need to enhance performance and also embrace the fact that artist will be born from the education formed. Children tend to develop cognitive skills and life skills when they are introduced to theater art education. The reason for development of cognitive functions that are strongly extended in what they do during art education is based on at what age they are introduced to theatre. Therefore, theatre art education is one of the predominant skills that can help a child become better in what they do and increase their cognitive functions. The study will employ a mixed methodology research design. The design will help in getting information from existing data. Likewise, the new formulated data will help in increasing the knowledge base on the effects of art education on children. Therefore, the study will also seek to unearth how children not exposed to arts education especially theater art develops and those who are not exposed to theatre art. Some of the hypothetical questions that the study will seek to answer is how art education affects children. Secondly, how art education impacts growth in children. Through the study, it will be of essence to note that we seek to find the effects of theatre art on children. Also, the findings will seek to unlock the effects of arts education on children and also strengthen the purpose of introducing art education in schools.

Chapter 1: Introduction

Problem statement

Education is one of the fundamental rights of a child and that is what each parents’ desires. But, art education especially the ones focusing ion theater has not been exploited to the fullest. During the early 1900, when theatres used to thrive and more so was the only form of entertainment, many actors sued to encourage their children to focus on theater education. However, with time that has changed and the 21^st century child is no longer interested in theatre nor arts education. Therefore, education in the 21^st century has been made possible with the enhancement of technology. The continual use of technology thereby has hampered the strides made in arts and theater education. In some country’s arts education is only available in universities and not in junior nor senior school. The absence of the same has prompted scholars to converge and push for arts and theater education to be integrated into the education system.

Furthermore, theater education and all forms of arts education should be the number one priority in all educational systems. It has been noted with great impact that all forms of theater and arts education have a positive impact on the growth of a child. Thus, this has promoted the continual use of educational complexes to be converted into halls and theater so that children may perform and even learn the aspect of arts and theater educations. Therefore, the continual push for children to learn and be taught arts education is increasingly on the rise. Societies that have seen the importance of arts and theater education are now rooting for the same to be implicated in schools globally. There is rich heritage when it comes to children learning and adopting arts and theater education. Therefore, there is a continual research on the aspects of arts and theater education in schools which may promote cognitive functions and also increase a child ability to relate with others properly.

Theoretical Framework

Similarly, the study will adopt the theory ascribed by Piaget and Vygotsky. The cognitive theory of development will assess the difference between children exposed to art and theater education in comparison to those who have not undergone the studies (Piaget, 2008). The theory will also reinforce the ideas that arts education in general encourages spontaneous growth in cognitive functions as well as increase a child psychomotor function. Children tend to adapt to situation and the education system easily when it is introduced to them at an early stage of life. Likewise, there is a high chance that arts education may be the epicenter of gradual growth of a child when it is introduced in their early stages.

Furthermore, the theory of experiential learning will be used to ascertain the effectiveness of theater and arts education (Boggs, Mickel, & Holtom, 2007). The use of this theory will make it possible to understand how and when a child first experience in arts education influences their zeal to continue learning. More so, children tend to love experimenting on the values of learning. Thereby, this theory will, make it easier for the learners and teachers alike to showcases the value of arts education and theater education at large. The influence that a child has is determined by the first experience they encounter when in a setting that encourages either arts or theater education. The current dancers, performers that we have are all products of arts and theatre education which is the fundamental to success on such fields.

Purpose Statement

Arts and theater education are one of the few areas of studies that has been neglected for so long in children. The fact that educational systems do not encourage nor foster some of these arts education is the reason why this study is relevant. The purpose of this study is to find a relationship between arts and theater education and the impact it has on a child development as well as learning. The introduction of arts and theater education will have a significant impact on a child and this will foster growth in so many ways. Further on, the impact of art and theater education is that many students will get to learn and it can influence creativity as well influence career choices in children when they become adults. However, with the introduction of technology, there is a great impact of how and when a child is given education. Educational systems have changed and this can greatly impact arts and theater education at large.

Consequently, this study will try to ascertain under what age is it relevant to introduce a child to arts and theater education. The use of data to ascertain the impact of arts education will greatly help this study as it pertains to theatre education. Nevertheless, the use of data from previous and current studies will help strengthens the study further. Through the use of interviews and surveys the study will be focused on developing new strategies and new knowledge on the effectiveness of arts education on children. Theater education on the other hand will help in ascertaining the impact it has on child development and the stage that it can be termed as successful in the developmental stages of a child.

Research Questions.

The general aim of this study is as follow:

What are the benefits of learning arts and theater education in children?
Is there a difference in growth and intellectual capacity of children introduced to arts education and those not learning the education?
Does learning arts and theatre education enhance capacity building in the future?
What is the significance of arts and theater education in children?
Should schools adopt art and theater education as part of their lifelong curriculum?

Therefore, this research questions will help to understand the value of arts and theater education in children as it pertains to their upbringing. Nevertheless, it will enhance capacity building in children thereby creating a form of learning in such children. The general knowledge of arts and theater education should help strengthen the already career deficit that is witnessed in performing arts especially in theaters.

Significance of The Study

The significance of this study is to help find out the benefits that art and theater education has on children. Through the use of mixed methodology of research, the study will seek to find out from existing data the importance of arts education to children. In regards to the reports by the office of juvenile and delinquency department, the impact of arts education will greatly help in reducing cases of delinquency in children. There is also the use of this program to create awareness on the dangers of depression as well as teenage pregnancy. In the era of 1900s arts and theater education was used to encourage some forms of positive vibes among children while admonishing some of the bad traits in children. Thereby, the use of arts and theater education can greatly help in reducing the number of children taken to juvenile facilities. Similarly, the study will help educational analyst and stakeholder to push for an inclusive art and theater education in the school curriculum.

Furthermore, the study will help in increasing awareness on the importance of arts education in general. The use arts and theater education in school will increase creativity as well create job opportunities to teachers and artist who can teach and impact life time skills to these children. With the learning of the arts education in school there is a high chance in the future that some of the children will be great artist as well as art directors. Of which this will greatly impact the educational system as well as the performing arts and theatre performance. In addition, in the near future there is a high chance that through the introduction of art and theater education, operas and street theater can be invented. Also, it is hoped that another Shakespeare may be born out of the art and theater education. The study is not only to inspire the generations to come but also create a legacy for the generations to come on the importance of art and theater education.

Chapter 2: Literature Review

Airulla (2004) notes that children tend to develop cognitive skills and life skills when they are introduced to theater art education. The reason for the development of cognitive functions are strongly extended in what they do during art education. Likewise, children cognitive functions are based on at what age they are introduced to theatre. Therefore, it becomes compelling to assert the value of arts education without linking it to theater education. In all forms of performing education, the link between one and the other is directly linked to the ability of the children and how well they respond to the study. The author further notes that there is a causality when arts education is involved in the upbringing of a child. Education is one of the fundamental factors that influence a child growth in the long run. Also, there is the fact that arts education contributes greatly to the life success and educational success of a child. There is a high chance that children involved in arts and theatre education thrive in life better than those who have not received such education.

Similarly, Anderson (2003) note that arts education is a life time skills that can help a child become a role model or take up a career in art. Therefore, theatre art education is one of the predominant skills that can help a child become better in what they do and increase their cognitive functions. The cognitive functions gained hereby is true reflection of what is to become of a child. The true meaning of art is to search for meaning as expounded by Anderson (2003). Therefore, if the education is not encouraged on matters regarding meaning then the true value of theatre art education cannot be attained at any cost. Further on, art education is not based on the racial inequality as most of the current education system. For instance, America’s history is based on the social and racial injustice committed against the African- American. However, with theatre art education the narrative may change and this may create a new wave of children who are not biased on race, gender, nor religion. Similarly, the author further asserts that through the use od education modern language can be taught and learned in an efficient mannerism.

Radhiah, Yusrianti, & Giranti, (2019, May) posit that the continuous practice of art education requires that the theory of education to be used effectively. The authors assert that through the use of the theory of art education, there are several benefits that are found and instigated by the same. Education as one of the fundamental rights of a child, becomes beneficial when it is for increasing knowledge, reducing literacy levels, and creating a successful path for a child in future. The study done Radhiah, Yusrianti, & Giranti, (2019, May) focusses greatly on the impact that theory of art education has on the scholarly undertaking research on matter concerning education. Through the use of the theory one can have enough value and evidence that can support the growth of theater art education in schools. The three distinct features of the theory are based on the value that theater art education impacts on children. As theater art education involve the aspects of characterization, plots, and settings. These values when learned can create a masterpiece project that will be useful for decades.

Tagiltsev et al (2017) notes that with the inception of technology e-learning has been the norm that has been adopted globally. However, learning art education in the technological ear has been made easier as student through the use of materials such as videos can imitate what they see. Nevertheless, the use of E-learning in theater art education can be a challenge as most of the learning require more practical than required. So, the instance that it may be introduced in schools there have to measures put in place to ensure that there is smooth transition from the traditional way of learning to the technological learning. Student doing and learning musical literature however, can learn the basics of the art and improve on the same through tutorials that are provided by the teachers through e-learning. The authors give the study a new notion that can be used to enhance and promote the study of theater art education.

The continual use of cultural artifacts to portray and convince the public through performing arts has lost its glory due to poor translations. In the past interpretation of culture was more advanced and enhanced because there were people who could interpret the same without losing the true meaning of the artifact. Paatela‐Nieminen, (2008) notes that the introduction of arts in school should focus on the impact that it has on the society and children at large. The author gives the presumption that in order to understand and teach art one must one must be conversant with the method of analyzing of cultural artefacts. In relation to that the author has authorized the use of cultural arts in relation to the region it has emanated from. For instance, when teaching children about Japanese art and theater performance it is quintessential to note that it requires proper and accurate dictions of words to make it worth the performance. Thus, by learning other cultural practices in theater art education can enhance the cognitive functions of a child and also enhance their language mastery skills.

Additionally, DeBettignies, & Goldstein, (2019) posits that there is a high chance that theater classes enhance the self-actualization concept in a child. For instance, in places where children are given theater art education at a tender age the children once they are given the opportunity to perform, they give their best. Also, such children become more confidence in what they do and also become a self-actualizing principled child. The use of elementary school children as the epitome of the research can help scholars to understand the value of performing arts as well as theater art education in general. Likewise, the author gives insights on the abilities that these children have and posses whenever they are introduced to arts education. whenever a child perfects the acts of performing for an audience there is a lot of efforts made to ensure that they succeed in the same. Thus, through the use of theater art education children tend to become more attentive to details and also, they are emotional present in whatever they do when compared to those who are not introduced to art education. In remarks the author gives several skills sets that these children acquire when they are exposed to theater art education.

Barnes et al.,2019, notes that the introduction of robot in musical and theatrical learning can enhance the possibilities of children becoming more exposed to knowledge. In the study the author relates to two identical and informational setting that contribute greatly to the STEM fields. Barnes et al.,2019, says that through the introduction of musical theater activities in class that were performed by robots, students became actively involved in classes. The fusion of musical theatre education and robots in class created a new feeling that many children wanted to enroll in such classes. Therefore, through the use of robot’s students have been able to learn more and also visualized the musical lesson they received in class. Theater art education when integrated into the learning system in school creates a sense of entitlement in school going children. Since most of the training involves the use of art as form of education, activities such as music, drawing, dancing, acting, and choreography are practiced in manners that are in line with STEM fields of study.

Teaching trainers in theater art education requires more than just several sessions of training it also requires skills that are relevant for the course. Many teachers who teach this skill have in the past years gained experience through the continuous practice over the same. Akbarova, Tursunova, & Abdunazarov note that student pursuing musical career in theater art performance have to undergo a series of training to perfect the art. In spite the fact that the process has to create processes that enable them to study, they also have to put in more effort. The continuous efforts have to be in line with the normal classes. Thus, in line with the arts education the main focus for the teachers is to create lessons that bring out the best in students’ ability. Therefore, this can only be made possible if there are several mitigations put in place. The author notes that for continual use of music and teaching of art, pedagogical skills and expertise have to be considered. Also, continual practice has to be taken into consideration for the same skills to be applied.

Children tend to develop relevant skills along the way when learning is concerned. For instance, in Bulgaria theater art is taught in school as way of encouraging and promoting cultural values of the country. Petkova, (2019) asserts that school can become boring if there are no any value input in the studies. Thus, student from as young as six years old are grouped into three and given a chance to play a role of their choice in class. Therefore, the introduction of aesthetic education has made children to gain more than abilities but to have potential to be creative, appreciate and accurately engage in a meaningful idea. The use of this information is relevant as the author express the different values that theater art education has on the children and the future generations. More so, theater art education has help teachers and student alike to create master piece of art.

The sole purpose of the study is the possibility of combining theater art education in children and how it enlightens their well-being. Through the use of pedagogical theory teachers and students alike have come to realize the importance of art education in relation to theater. Also, the continual use of pedagogical insights teachers and students of music have come to create several masterpieces projects that have topped the operas and performed globally. Through the integration of Stanislavsky’s system, it has proven that theatrical art is a masterpiece in its own. The principle suggested by Stanislavsky presupposes that creativity of a child is triggered through actions that are given unto them (Petkova, 2019). There is the psychological factor that are considered and also the impact it has on them. Similarly, children who have undergone theatrical art training are considered to be more disciplined and even more social than their counterparts. The author further asserts the notions that through the use of emotional memory children in theatrical education are more likely to create harmony and also retain most of what they are taught in class.

Children education is a fundamental right in every country and therefore, it becomes a priority when a country is stable. Political stability and economic stability are the key in creating a proper theater art education. For example, in a country such as Syria, teachers have come up with educational systems that have included the use of art to create awareness on peace. Even though children suffer the most in times of war, these teachers have created hope for these children. Ziter (2017) posit that through the use of therapeutically projects actors and teachers alike have come to revolutionize art. The use of public spaces as there are no school to learn and even teach, these public spaces have become the center of the classroom for artist. Hereby, children exposed to such kind of art become more aware of the situation they are in and they can choose to either be part of the peace process or declare war. However, these forms of theatrical art education have greatly influenced the younger generation to promote and protect the value chain of peace.

Substantially, children are the bridging gap between now and the future, there is more than what meets the eye when it comes to art education. Many scholars and psychologist have come to understand the value of art education when introduced to children as early as six years. Such a child becomes more attracted to things and machineries that are fascinating and thereby they tend to be creative and more assertive in their learning skills. Thereby, there is power in what they do and what they engage in as children. Rowe, (2018) asserts that music enhances social development in children and it is the number one criterion that psychologist use to determine the developmental features of a child. Therefore, art can be as form of encouraging group work in children which may be a good form for creating friendship. Additionally, there can be more than one creation that will make a child be more creativity and productive when they grow.

Chapter 3: Methodology

Research questions

The general aim of this study is as follow:

What are the benefits of learning arts and theater education in children?
Is there a difference in growth and intellectual capacity of children introduced to arts education and those not learning the education?
Does learning arts and theatre education enhance capacity building in the future?
What is the significance of arts and theater education in children?
Should schools adopt art and theater education as part of their lifelong curriculum?

Therefore, this research questions will help to understand the value of arts and theater education in children as it pertains to their upbringing (Nelson, 2016). Nevertheless, it will enhance capacity building in children thereby creating a form of learning in such children. The general knowledge of arts and theater education should help strengthen the already career deficit that is witnessed in performing arts especially in theaters.

While answering these questions above it will not only be looking at the impact of theater education in children but also it will be creating a need for further development of curriculum based on theater education as posited by Nicholson, (2009). Nicholson, (2009) points out that there is a high chance that children who are exposed to theater education to be intellectually stable than those who are not exposed to such education. Similarly, teachers have also come out to give clear distinctive assessment that shows the availability of jobs when student and especially children are given arts education. Even though art and theater education may vary in undertaking, the collaboration between the two is majorly enabled through integration of both. Schools that have integrated the theater art education in their curriculum have come out strong in terms of producing students who are more attached to value addition and also have hands-on experience in things.

Study design

The aim of the study is to find the enlightening effects of theater art education on children, which can be studied using a mixed methodology system. The study according to Dillman, (2000) will employ the use of survey. The survey will seek to determine the exact number of children who have undertaken theater art education and those who have not. Thus, it will be prudent to seek information from schools that have enrolled and practicing theater art education in their schools. This will help in getting information relevant to the study and the amount of time spent on training such children. Surveys will be sent to the participating schools and this will help in getting information better and faster (Terrell, 2012). The surveys will be based on the data that the school has on how many students have enrolled in theater art education and those who have not enrolled. Nevertheless, the survey will be based on the academic performance on students enrolled in arts education and those who have not enrolled. Will the results yield more than what is expected is the answer the survey will seek to ask?

Also, through the use of qualitative method will enhance the credibility of the study. The study will collect samples through the use of questionnaire pertaining the issue of arts education in school, the effect of theater art education on children and the impact. Likewise, the questionnaire is meant to gain more details on the effects of art education and theater education in overall. The questionnaire will be presented to parents and teachers who are the main participants in the study. The study will involve a total of 200 schools picked randomly in one of the provinces and another in the districts. The schools will be divided into two because one will have students enrolled into theater art education and the other half will be enrolled in normal education.

Participants

The participants of the study will vary from teachers, parents, school principals, and art instructors. The study will develop a way of getting new participants and how they are to participate in the study. The 200 participants will be selected randomly through a randomized selection. One of the first batch of the participant will resolve to show the opportunity that theatre art education has on children and the effects it has on those who are not practicing the same. The teachers in the study will show us how they teach art education and theater education at large. Some of the participant however, we could not persuade them to participate as they were engaged in some other duties. Additionally, others had to be offered some form of incentive in order for them to participant. These calibers of participant also offered to give accurate information on the way art education has impacted children.

The participants in this research ranged from 1year to 20 years of teaching experience in either art or theater education. The target population for this study are children between the age of six years to thirteen. Either in pre-school and those in junior school who have taken art and theater education as part of their subjects. The study also involved the use of psychologist who attributed the fact that children who have attended arts and theater education correspond in a cognitive manner. The psychologist also will measure the effects of children undergoing educational theatre art curriculum. From the questionnaire which will involve a set of 20 questions that compromised of how the program ran and how it faired with the children. The questions will also focus on the age that the program was introduced to the children and how they responded. The questions will also focus on the follows up that the children have when it comes to performing and putting into practice what they have been taught in the classroom.

Data Sources

The data will come from different sources ranging from schools’ websites and arts schools. The number one source will come from the ministry of education. The ministry website and the directorate of education will inform the study on the needs and how the educational system has developed over the years (Onwuegbuzie, & Leech 2006). Likewise, there is an increase in the uptake of art education in china as the website of the ministry states. In china the number of art schools and educational centers have increased and thereby creating a need for children to attend the same.

Another notable source of data will come from the schools and directory of art and theater performance. The source will help in knowing what type and kind of data t6hat is available for use on the country and how that particular data can be used in the study. The focus of the data source will be based on how they run the art education and what parameters have been put in pace to ensure that theater art education becomes a priority in future. The research will also use information from the various schools used in the study to ascertain for how long theatre and art education has been taught in the schools. from the sources it will be possible to ascertain the impact it has on children and the long-term goal of the project. The schools will provide the study with information pertaining the use of art and theatre education on entertainment and what was the sole purpose of the same.

Data Collection

Data collection will be conducted through the use of questionnaire provided, the questionnaires were sent to the participants through emails and returned via the same protocol. Out of the 280 sample questionnaires sent 200 of them came back for analysis. Notably, the data from the website wills be collected through the means of emails sent to the team. Further on, data samples collected from the surveys will be collected from the school principals who will be contacted and time allocated for them during the research. The answers from the survey will be complied to form a good analysis and rapport. The data from psychologist and teachers will be collected via personal interaction as this is key in not missing information or getting uncomplete report on the same. Likewise, data from the ministry will be collected by way of messengers once we have briefed them on the need for the study.

Data Analysis

From the samples collected it is evident that nearly 80 percent of the participants responded to the survey and questionnaires sent. This meant that the study was a success as more than fifty percent responded to the questionnaires. The questionnaires were divided into several parts that indicated the need and option for the study. Each of the participants were asked to give a recommendation on why they think that theater art education is the key for enlightening children and why they would support it. Similarly, it also had a section where teachers gave their rating of theater art education and the impact it had on the children they taught. Some of the questions in the questionnaires as per the demographic were recorded as follows:

The years of expertise the teachers had: The numerical value of 1 and 20 years were recorded by the teachers.
Age of the Children: The intended age group of children recorded was between the age of six and thirteen.
The type of art and theater education taught:according to the results obtained in the study art education ranged from painting, sculpting, dancing, music, and performing arts. Most of these were taken as a single subject or as an extra-curriculum activity in the schools.
Certification of art education:The study found that most of the education taught in school was certified in the end and that most of the students either advanced to the university levels and some even started street and theater performance after several years of practices.
Psychological Impacts:from the study it was found that children who have undertaken theater art education were more interactive than those who did not undertake the same. Also. Cognitive functions of some of the children were measured as per the guidelines of the study and the result proved that their I.Q was more than average. In comparison from the samples taken from the school counselling teachers, student who are enrolled in art and theater education had more intrinsic insight about life and were more open to discussion than their counterparts.

The study utilized the information obtained from all the sources and ascertained that theater art education is one of the best forms of education that increases children abilities. Through the use of constant comparative design, the study will analyses the effects of theater art education on children in the educational system with those who are note studying. Also, the study found that those students who had undertaken theatre art education were found to be interactive, assertive and portrayed signs of maturity when compared to the rest. Also, the teachers and instructors found out that these children were able to deal with any psychological effects better than those in normal classes.

Furthermore, there was a sense of creativity experienced over time when time was accurately measured. From the sample taken of participating schools in the various provinces of China, 6 out of ten schools practices theater art education. From the same schools, 200 out of 1000 students undertook theater classes while 100 undertook art education classes. The research also triangulated data to create a comparison of performance on kids. The kid’s performance was measured on the basis of when the school was opened and those who undertook the studies. The data from the same class was compiled to analyze the educational impact theater and art education had on student performance. Without the constant invariable of age, the study compiled data based on the aspects of general class involvement and creativity in the children. Lastly, an analysis was done to ascertain the level of education some of the teachers and instructors had and out of the sample taken 90 percent had an advance level of education in either performing arts or art education.

Ethical Consideration

During the research ethical consideration had to be factored in as there were several issues that arose. One of issue that was coming up is the issue of consent and voluntary participation in the study. Since we are dealing with multiple people in the research it was evident that consent and permission were the number one priority. Likewise, some of the persons required that we tip them for information as some of them required them some incentives. From the teacher’s side, we encountered problem as some never wanted to share information regarding the teaching of art and theater education in schools. Also, infringements on rights for people who have given information. The information required will be limited and protected as per the agreement. The information obtained in the study will solely be used for educational purposes.

Limitations

There were several limitations when undertaking this study. The initial limitation is that our focus was mainly children undertaking theater art education. The idea was based on the literacy development and also the fact that we could not address or follow up on the children after they have graduated from school. The children aged between six years and thirteen years when they are in adolescent years have been known to be rebellious. However, the age limit became a factor that limit what the research could accomplish. The research could not design an after follow up to know what courses these students took in college or if they continued with arts education in high school. The fact that the research concluded with information that is limited without following up the extent to which children do even after five years of completion of senior school.

Furthermore, getting the required information was limited as some of the documented data required high level security access. The information also had to be sourced from institutions which was not easy to access thereby creating a barrier to search for information. Also, the time used to locate schools and influence some of the teachers so that we could use the information was wrenching.

Another notable challenge was then compilation of the data sent from all the 200-participant coming from 400 schools scattered all over China. The raw data obtained was massive and therefore had to be converted for the ease of developing and compiling for this study. The data obtained from the study was large and therefore had to be disintegrated into bit so that it can only serve the age bracket stipulated in the study.

Notably, the self-administering questionnaire was impossible for some participants. Several participants returned the questionnaires partly filled thereby making them useless for the study. Several of the participants either filled the wrong information or they did not understand the question being asked in the study. Therefore, making the information to lack in validity and also reliability. In some instances, several of the questionnaire had to be inadmissible in the study as they lacked in clear definition as well as information. There seems to have been some form of confusion as some of the teachers and instructors were aligned to the formal education of art. Thereby, most of the questionnaire brought in information regarding art education in general and therefore few details on the importance of theatre education.

Chapter 4: Results

Art and theater education are one of the globally growing subjects of interest in children. In the European context teachers and educational stakeholder are running against time to introduce the curriculum to children as way of promoting art and theater education. In the study the main aim was focused on art and theater education in children and the enlightenment it had on the said children. The study focused on a limited group of 200 teachers and instructors who are dealing directly with children either in theater education or art education. The 200 came from a randomized selected 200 schools. The number although was relevant as the teachers showed interest and provided information in various forms that were relevant to the research. The resultant effect of art and theater education has shown that children are more elevated in thoughts when they undertake these courses.

Out of the 200 schools that were sampled the result showed that, children develop high cognitive functions compared to those who study other subjects. Also, the study after analysis of the questionnaire out of the 280 questionnaires sent 200 of them were deemed useful for the study. The 200 were further divided into two and the result proved that art education in school has enlightenment effect on children. The enlightening was in the form of complex cognitive functions and emotional attachment in these children. Since the study also touched on teachers specializing in art education and theater education. Teachers who had a minimal of between 1 to five years of teaching experience. The teachers asserted that in those few years of training children on the values of art education, they have seen tremendous growth in term of self-esteem. Children exposed to art and theatrical education tend to be more assertive in their actions and this is what the study wanted to observe.

The research aimed to answer the question that pertains to the benefits of learning art and theater education in children. The results proved that there are several benefits associated with learning art and theater education. First of all, the study seeks to find the best analogy and term to explain what art education entails and what is theater education. From definition of the term art education entails the use of skills that a child has such as drawing, dancing, music, and creation of masterpiece. On the other hand, theater education involves the musical pieces, presentation of skits, operas, acting, and theatrical prop making. All these when introduced to Children have been found to create as sense of emotional competency. Likewise, the benefits of learning art and theater education is found in how a child becomes responsive in classes.

The study has seen that from the result obtained that out of the 200 schools that participated, 180 responded that children are undertaking art and theater education. Although the sample size of the study ranged from six years to thirteen years, we have found out that there are some schools that introduce art education to children as young as four years. The number of schools that enrolled children below the age of six were 10 number. Similarly, 10 school specialized in theater education with majors on the production of Chinese culture. From the numbers it is certain that these children after a period of three years were more assertive in the actions. The school’s data that the study received showed that there was a high number of children whose academic performances increased. Also, from the sample we obtained, some of the children who enrolled into art and theater education when in their eighth or tenth year proved to have a relative high esteem.

The study also after analysis of the data found out that out of the many children who enrolled in their later years in school had an increase in their performance. The performance was mainly in academics and extra curriculum activities in the schools. Parents also asserted that some of these children became more attentive to details and even became more welcoming in their behavior. Based on the theory of emotional learning, the study tried to relate the data received with that and found out that there are more than emotions when it comes to art and theater education. In most instance, children become expressive in their ideas and thus, depict what they feel through art. When a child is frustrated at home, their way of communication is through drawing or writing down what they feel and this has helped teachers to be aware of the problems that children face while at home.

Furthermore, drawing from the concepts depicted by John Dewey, the study has found several results on the same. The first impression is that children express their views through art and if there is no avenue, they can use then it becomes difficult for them to learn and socialize. Through the study it was able to re affirm the notion suggested by Dewey on self-expression by children. Through art and theater education children have become more open to discussion and thereby do not suffer any form of psychological dysfunction. A healthy child is a productive child. Similarly, when children suppress their ideologies and well-being structures then they tend to become more of introverts than extroverts. Nonetheless, the theory of development as shared by Piaget and Vygotsky, have established and re-affirm the notions suggested in the study.

The theorist Piaget and Vygotsky study findings correlated well with what this study found with regards to children developmental stages. When exposed to art and theater education children tend to be more intellectually active thereby participating more and more. The ability to perform and impress people is what excites children. This in turn create the feeling of satisfaction which is later on replicated in what they do at home and even with their fellows’ student. The study found based on the psychological reports that children undertaking art and theater education have more brain development and their cognitive functions are more in line with memory retention technique. Additionally, children tend to imitate what they are taught in school and theater education brings the notions of creation into life and this is the basis of theater performances. Some of the school principals and teachers have recorded videos of children either doing art or performing and have gone viral thereby promoting the children. Through the use of art, there have been instances where children have been recognized globally and thereby created attention not only for themselves but for their schools.

Art as a form of education has brought about massive changes in the teaching dynamics as some of the teachers and instructors depicted. Out of the instructors interviewed, 50 of them and 85 teachers asserted that it is through art that children with special attention such as those with down syndrome, hypersensitivity, and autism have been able to create art masterpieces. Also, teachers have found ways of relating and teaching these children with ease and with a lot of excitement thereby bringing peace and good relation with other children. The number of children that have benefitted from art education in China and other parts of the globe are on the rise as there is value in art. In some of the European countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia art education has been embraced as part of the curriculum. This is because there is more value in art and also, some of the cultural practices are slowing fading away due to the introduction of digital inventories. Similarly, art and theater education are beneficial for children as they tare an embodiment of time and memory.

Chapter 5: Discussion and Future Research

Future research should be conducted in both junior and senior schools to determine the effectiveness of theatre art education in children. The study should be based on time and efficiency as this is the basis for a good documented research. The time frame for the study should focus on several schools that are randomly picked in the study, the schools will start to monitor the progress of the children from the age of five until they graduate from college or university. A similar number of participants not undertaking theater and art education should also be monitored over the same period. The finding then will tell scholars on what and if there is an enlightening effect of theater art education on children. Since the study had few participants it will be better if there is a larger sample size and also ample time for the study.

A larger sample size would help in getting more information on the effects of theater art education. Although, most school do have art education in different form it would be greater to base the research on one of the arts maybe performing arts and even theater production. There is little information on how any schools’ practices performing arts. In China children learn about art as part of some subjects therefore having minimal time on the same. There is no unlimited time that is spared for theater art education as a form of curriculum. There is more to art and theatre education that when integrated into the educational system may benefit children for centuries. There is also the use of drama and theater to make a statement on some pressing issues such as the theatrical narrative of Shakespeare.

From the study and the findings, it was difficult to ask children directly the importance of theater art education because of time. Future research should focus on getting information from the source and monitoring the children. Therefore, children should be the centerstage of the first respondent in the research as they can provided first hand information. If the research focuses on bringing firsthand information through time allocation and monitoring then the research would be successful. There would be reason to understand the effects of art and theater education, the impact it has on children and the extend unto which child development can occur. In the future study will be of concern if there are several psychologists to monitor the progress of the kids in art education and compare them with the other kids. As this will provide accurate on child cognitive development as stipulated and posited by theorist. Thereby, the impact of behavior on children should focus on what causes such impediments of character. The number one future research should be inclusive of teachers, psychologist, and educational stakeholders to ascertain the extend of art education. Thereby in the end, there will be a successful and concrete evidence on the value of art education on children.

Art education and individual performance is a subject to reckon as there is a high IQ involved in art education. Children who are enrolled in art education tend to be more assertive in their duties. Moreover, there is an interesting fact that students have shown when it comes to the study of art and theater education. In comparison to global institutes of art, China has become one of the few countries in Asia that has developed art in schools. Also, art has been diversified from junior school to higher learning institutions, this is because the world has become a global village where performance is appreciated at all cost. The 21^st century has presented opportunity for many especially children as there is a lot of exposure. For instance, there is the upsurge in internet connectivity and this has proved that there is more to handle and to absorb. Therefore, art education and individual performance has increased due to the availability of internet and also the creation of video content sharing sites such as YouTube.

Future research should focus on increasing content for children. Art is one of the skills that can impact a child’s life for eternity. Therefore, if future research should be done, it would be to focus on the impact that art and theater education will have on children who undertake the study. Children when exposed for a long period to art education it can help them to be economical sustainable and also in the long run to be empowered to greater height. Thus, future research should focus on empowering children in the long-run for economical sustainability. If the child is empowered with skills and given the right platform to express and showcase their skills then, they will be responsible. Responsible children tend to become responsible adults. Nonetheless, there will be a lot of experts in art and theater that their skills can be exported to other countries. For instance, the world needs more of Michelangelo and the likes of Baldacci. To make it possible there has to be some form of support from all stakeholders.

Technology also is another additional factor that has to be considered in future in art and theater education. The current generation of children should learn to embrace the possibility of having technology as their tool for learning and improving the skills learned at school. Although schools are the epitome of learning, there is more to that as learning can be continued even at home. Therefore, continued learning is what teachers and instructors should emphasize on. In the long run, student’s ability to continue learning is enabled even when not in the learning institutions. Technology has enabled students to get more materials for learning and also indulge into activities that will increase their overall performance. If in the future research is done to see the capabilities of children learning art and theater education using technology and those in tradition classes. The difference in the learning and outcome should dictate how efficient learning is and what criterion it has on children. There is also the impact of technology and tradition learning on children and this should be researched with utmost clarity.

Chapter 6: Conclusion

In summation, the study has elaborated the importance of the enlightening effect of theater art education on children in different capacity as witnessed. Theater education supports the educational system and this is the reason that so many schools have adopted this form of art education. Similarly, art education is meant to boost cognitive functions of the child during their developmental stages. Nevertheless, teaching theater education in schools creates the need to enhance performance and also embrace the fact that artist will be born from the education formed. Education is one of the fundamental rights of a child and that is what each parents’ desires. But, art education especially the ones focusing ion theater has not been exploited to the fullest. During the early 1900, when theatres used to thrive and more so was the only form of entertainment, many actors sued to encourage their children to focus on theater education.

Children become mentored in very different ways and that is why the use of theater and arts education is important in their growth. The gradual growth that is witnessed in a child can be enhanced if arts education is integrated into the educational system. Through the use of the theory of artistic learning we get to learn more on the value of arts education on a child. Children from the age of five up to the age of thirteen when mentored well in the fields of arts and theater they can thrive well. The reason for adopting this theory is because it explains better the value of arts education and the learning value that a child can adopt and acquire in the long run. The theory also presupposes the intrinsic value that a child has whenever arts and theatre education is introduced to them at an early stage of life (Tanner, 2016). Similarly, the study will adopt the theory ascribed by Piaget and Vygotsky. The cognitive theory of development will assess the difference between children exposed to art and theater education in comparison to those who have not undergone the studies (Piaget, 2008). These two theories have proved that children learn and get information better when exposed to good learning skills. Learning skills entails the use of art and theater education skills. These skills in in order to be mastered they have to be learning and through continuous learning. The learning helps in creating a more reliable and the child gets to know more information compared to those without any form of skills.

Arts and theater education are one of the few areas of studies that has been neglected for so long in children. The fact that educational systems do not encourage nor foster some of these arts education is the reason why this study is relevant. However, with the introduction of technology, there is a great impact of how and when a child is given education. Educational systems have changed and this can greatly impact arts and theater education at large. The research questions were answered. Therefore, this research questions have helped to understand the value of arts and theater education in children as it pertains to their upbringing. Nevertheless, it will enhance capacity building in children thereby creating a form of learning in such children. The general knowledge of arts and theater education have helped strengthened the already career deficit that is witnessed in performing arts especially in theaters. The significance of this study is to help find out the benefits that art and theater education has on children. Through the use of mixed methodology of research, the study will seek to find out from existing data the importance of arts education to children. In regards to the reports by the office of juvenile and delinquency department, the impact of arts education will greatly help in reducing cases of delinquency in children.

Airulla (2004) notes that children tend to develop cognitive skills and life skills when they are introduced to theater art education. The reason for the development of cognitive functions are strongly extended in what they do during art education. Similarly, Anderson (2003) note that arts education is a life time skills that can help a child become a role model or take up a career in art. Therefore, theatre art education is one of the predominant skills that can help a child become better in what they do and increase their cognitive functions. The cognitive functions gained hereby is true reflection of what is to become of a child. The true meaning of art is to search for meaning as expounded by Anderson (2003). Radhiah, Yusrianti, & Giranti, (2019, May) posit that the continuous practice of art education requires that the theory of education to be used effectively. The authors assert that through the use of the theory of art education, there are several benefits that are found and instigated by the same.

Also, through the use of qualitative method will enhance the credibility of the study. The study will collect samples through the use of questionnaire pertaining the issue of arts education in school, the effect of theater art education on children and the impact. Likewise, the questionnaire is meant to gain more details on the effects of art education and theater education in overall. The questionnaire will be presented to parents and teachers who are the main participants in the study. The study involved a total of 200 schools picked randomly in one of the provinces and another in the districts. Data collection will be conducted through the use of questionnaire provided, the questionnaires were sent to the participants through emails and returned via the same protocol. Out of the 280 sample questionnaires sent 200 of them came back for analysis.

The study has seen that from the result obtained that out of the 200 schools that participated, 180 responded that children are undertaking art and theater education. Although the sample size of the study ranged from six years to thirteen years, we have found out that there are some schools that introduce art education to children as young as four years. The number of schools that enrolled children below the age of six were 10 number. Similarly, 10 school specialized in theater education with majors on the production of Chinese culture. From the numbers it is certain that these children after a period of three years were more assertive in the actions. From the study and the findings, it was difficult to ask children directly the importance of theater art education because of time. Future research should focus on getting information from the source and monitoring the children. Therefore, children should be the centerstage of the first respondent in the research as they can provided first-hand information. If the research focuses on bringing firsthand information through time allocation and monitoring then the research would be successful.

Lastly, this study has achieved its goals and contributed to the knowledge bank on art and theater education. The future research should also focus on the impact of art and theater education. Therefore, continued learning is what teachers and instructors should emphasize on. In the long run, student’s ability to continue learning is enabled even when not in the learning institutions. Technology has enabled students to get more materials for learning and also indulge into activities that will increase their overall performance. If in the future research is done to see the capabilities of children learning art and theater education using technology and those in tradition classes. The difference in the learning and outcome should dictate how efficient learning is and what criterion it has on children.

References

The Enlightening Effect of Theater Art Education on Children

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