How Do Europeans Prioritize Art Education versus the U.S.?

The US and European countries differ on many things, including economic and social life. This also includes in their views on art education. Europeans have mixed economies with large cultural and social programs that include art education.

American by contrast advocates supply-side economics, free trade, and small government with education budgets that differ from state to state. Rather than viewing everything that the other does is bad or somehow inferior, it would be good for the U.S. to emulate what Europeans do with art education. 

Is art education more important in the US or in Europe?

America

Art education in the US is so much different when compared to that of the most European countries. In the US, art education depends on districts and school.  For example, music is mostly taught in elementary school. At this stage, over 90% of public school has designated music classes, but that’s all. Other art classes are not of much importance. More often they are integrated into academic subjects or are used for free time. In other cases, art programs are funded by special agent and grants.

European Countries?

When you go to Europe, art education is more important. The program is taught across many countries. For instance, in a country like Finland, art programs are interwoven throughout the curriculum. Kids don't learn about art after elementary curriculum, but it progresses with the classes when they get to middle school. The schools in this country are widely researched because of their success in the PISA exam. Schools in Finland are centered on educating children, encouraging creativity and play. They are also well funded by the government.

Do they spend more or less?

In Europe, they invest in art education from the elementary school going up. They focus on every aspect of art programs and help kids understand art and different studies and programs. The same can't be said about the US. The US needs to make necessary changes such as:

• • Increasing school funding
• • Increase training and support in a bid to make arts education simpler
• • Focus on the child as a whole

At the moment, arts education in both The US and Europe are not the same. Europe gives priority to art education while the US does not. Hopefully, the education system and technology will make things easier and bring art education into the classrooms. Students in both countries should enjoy creative, engaging art education. This way, art can make a comeback in the US educational system.

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