Based on Educational Research
A number of significant research studies on early learning literacy and art initiatives and best practices confirm the importance of the arts to develop children's literacy, particularly with high risk and ESL children. Research indicates that the arts engage the use and development of children's multiple senses and intelligences, thus supporting school success. (Redmond & Rabkin, 2004; Catterall, 1999; Burger & Winner, 2000)
These studies support the work of the PASELA project and are categorized into five interrelated areas: 1) Art and Literacy; 2) Arts Integrated teaching; 3) Transfer learning and the arts; 4) The arts and at-risk students; and 5) The learning environment
PASELA - Preliminary Research Results
Initial research into the effectiveness of the PASELA project indicate:
- • Children are increasingly engaged in posing and solving problems that lead to critical thinking that supports success in school.
- • Classrooms are transformed into aesthetic, engaging and literacy rich learning environments prepared to accept all children, including those with special needs.
- • Teachers and artists are preparing environments that stimulate, support and extend children's artistic learning and literacy development and are supported by a literacy and arts coach.
- • Families are attending arts and literacy events:
71% of the families have library cards which is more than double prior to PASELA
94% report reading more at home with their child since PASELA. 50% have attended Southside arts events.
Teachers are increasing their understanding of literacy content and how to support children's emergent literacy development