Access and Widening Participation in Arts Higher Education: Practice and Research

This book explores strategies to increase access and widening participation (WP) in arts higher education, addressing issues such as creative writing, music, art, and design within a global context. It aims to promote the value and quality of arts education while ensuring fair access for all.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 263 pages
Publication date: 23 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive volume brings together a diverse array of practitioners, managers, and researchers who specialize in the field of arts higher education to explore innovative strategies for enhancing access and widening participation (WP). Situated within a broader global context where countries are striving for greater harmonization of higher education to accommodate the increasing mobility of students and workers across international borders, the issues addressed in this book are of paramount importance. The chapter authors, each of whom brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the table, delve into various aspects of higher education institutions from a WP perspective, encompassing disciplines such as creative writing, music, art, and design. Through their insightful contributions, the editor and her chapter authors aim to answer the critical question of how educators in arts higher education can promote the value and quality of their work while ensuring fair access and wide participation for all.

The first chapter of the book provides an overview of the current landscape of arts higher education, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that exist in this field. It explores the historical context, evolving trends, and the changing demographics of students and educators within the arts. The chapter also examines the role of arts higher education in promoting social inclusion, cultural diversity, and economic development.

The subsequent chapters delve into specific issues and challenges related to WP in arts higher education. For instance, Chapter 2 discusses the barriers to access and participation, such as financial constraints, geographical barriers, and cultural differences. The chapter authors explore innovative approaches and strategies that can be employed to overcome these barriers, including scholarships, outreach programs, and flexible learning formats.

Chapter 3 focuses on the quality of education in arts higher education, emphasizing the need for rigorous academic standards, effective teaching practices, and a supportive learning environment. The chapter authors discuss the role of assessment and feedback in enhancing student learning outcomes and promoting academic excellence.

Chapter 4 explores the role of arts higher education in promoting employability and career development. The chapter authors discuss the skills and competencies that students acquire through their studies in the arts, and the ways in which these skills can be applied in various industries and professions. The chapter also highlights the importance of entrepreneurship and innovation in the arts sector.

Chapter 5 examines the impact of arts higher education on personal and social development. The chapter authors explore the ways in which arts education can foster creativity, self-expression, and critical thinking, and how these skills can contribute to personal growth and well-being.

Chapter 6 discusses the challenges and opportunities of internationalization in arts higher education. The chapter authors explore the benefits and drawbacks of studying abroad, the strategies for promoting international collaboration and exchange, and the ways in which arts higher education can contribute to global citizenship and social responsibility.

In conclusion, this volume offers a valuable insight into the field of arts higher education, providing a comprehensive examination of strategies for enhancing access, widening participation, and promoting the value and quality of education. The chapters are written by experts in their respective fields, and the book is a valuable resource for educators, policymakers, and students interested in advancing the field of arts higher education.

Weight: 379g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030974527
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022