From the Field

Adding Arts to STEM for Young Students

Policymakers have long been interested in the benefits of STEM education (science, technology, engineering and math) in improving a state’s economic outlook. Yet even after the adoption of STEM programs, systematic youth engagement has not occurred in primary schools. Research and Policy Implications of STEAM Education for Young Students, published by the Education Commission of the States in partnership with the Arts Education Partnership, suggests that interest in STEM education, as well as new capacity, expertise and perspectives, can be stimulated in young learners by fostering and adding the “A” for arts (STEAM). The policy brief offers an overview of the positive impacts of STEAM as a more comprehensive education for young learners in pre-K through fifth grade.

Arts Education Comparison Tools Update

The ArtScan database of the Arts Education Partnership has been updated with a new 50-State Comparison tool and State Profile. This enhancement makes the database more user-friendly and broadens its data coverage on arts education programs and policies throughout all 50 states and the District of Columbia. With the new comparison tool, users now have more options for comparing several states within regions and the ability to create reports that best suit their interests and advocacy needs. A list of 160 accredited Department of Defense Education Activity schools and a federally run preK-12 education system for children of military members were also added in this update.

Changes in Cultural Visit Preferences

New data from Impacts Experience highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the types of cultural institutions people prefer to visit. Having collected similar data at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Impacts Experience finds that demand for certain types of onsite cultural engagement are still below pre-COVID levels, while other cultural institutions have seen increased demand. The data suggests that even after a return to pre-COVID-19 behavior, visitors are less likely to want to attend stationary, indoor activities and instead will prefer to attend outdoor activities or spaces with freedom of movement.