Arts Teachers’ Perceptions and Attitudes on Arts Integration While Participating in a Statewide Arts Integration Initiative

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions and attitudes of the Beverley Taylor Sorenson Arts Learning Program (BTSALP) arts specialists on arts integration. BTSALP arts specialists ( N = 50) throughout the state of Utah responded to a 20-item survey. Results indicated that a majority of BTSALP arts specialists believe that arts integration serves as a support for both arts and nonarts subjects. BTSALP art specialists also indicated that teacher collaboration is essential for effective integration models; however, collaboration continues to be one of the greatest challenges. Also, results indicated a need for arts integration training for undergraduate preservice arts specialists. Open-ended response questions revealed the perceived benefits of arts integration as a positive impact on students both academically and socially. The limitations of arts integration identified were time constraints, the inability to “teach art for the sake of art,” and a lack support from both teachers and administrators.