The science behind this is solid. Here it is: more of the brain is at work when the arts are part of the learning process. As a result, the student strengthens his attentiveness, reaction time and comprehension. There is also plenty of research to suggest that arts education methods improve long-term retention. In other words, what the students learn through arts integration will stay in their memories for longer than that year’s standardized test. When students are allowed academic expression through art, like drawing a picture or writing a song, the information is embedded in their minds. Long-term learning and practical application of knowledge are both supported when the arts are integrated.

Teachers can do a lot to support arts integration in school—even when the school has no money to support an official program. Artistic talent is not needed for a teacher to be successful in arts integration, but she does need to be innovative enough to merge art concepts with other content. Social media is an amazing platform for teaching ideas, particularly when it comes to the arts, and teachers should use these available resources from around the world to integrate arts and traditional academics.

Teachers should also seek out partnerships with other departments to make the most of the arts learning in the classroom. Come up with a themed learning module, then reach out to the art teacher or music teacher for ideas on partnering for a greater learning experience for the students. Bottom line: Even without the cash in hand, teachers can and should seek out arts integration initiatives in their classrooms.

Still not convinced. The graphic below will help with that. It lists more facts about the benefits of arts education.