Integrate arts in Jamaican classrooms
THE EDITOR, Madam:
PABLO PICASSO said,“Every child is an artist; the problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” Lately, there has been a trend in how teachers instruct in our Jamaican classrooms. While we recognise the value of our teachers, it is important to not only talk about the techniques used to engage students, but also implement sustainable plans that support teaching.
Social media went crazy over Elvy’s Soltau’s video of her teaching in an unconventional way. Even Prime Minister Andrew Holiness weighed in, stating she is “a creative and passionate teacher. Thank you for this meaningful and impactful strategy that I believe other teachers should emulate.”
It is time we formally integrate arts into how we instruct in our classrooms. The discussions are relevant, and the praises are valid, but we should emulate Ms Soultau’s technique to engage students.
I urge the Ministry of Education to encourage arts integration as a fundamental guideline for specific content, as several pieces of research have proven that the arts, as a teaching tool, positively impacts learning. Teachers are tasked with providing a functional environment that adapts to change and social demographics through creative methodologies. Jamaican teachers are willing to adapt to change that empowers instruction in the classroom. Hence, I ask the Most Hon Brogad to institute arts integration training for our educators.