In a period of severe economic downturn, education will suffer from declining funding, like the rest of a struggling society. Until there is a revolutionary change in educational philosophy that will downsize the arts and promote math and science vigorously, the role of arts, fine and performing, must be examined to assess its practical application in the classroom.

It is critically important to evaluate the potential achievements of the individual arts in order to determine what to discard and what to retain under the pressure of budget cuts. If the standard for consideration of the importance of the arts in the curricula is defined by measurable results, it is necessary to objectively apply the accomplishment of tangible goals that have maximum effect on large numbers of students.

This essay is not an aesthetic comparison of the arts, but a utilitarian guide to the most efficacious application of a meaningful learning tool. Music and dance require the development of high skills for any significant progress. Therefore, they are not ideal vehicles for transmitting the benefits of the arts to numerous classrooms. The fine arts of painting, sculpture, etc. are also technically demanding and are appropriate to special talents, not the general student population.

Art appreciation is a wonderful means of stimulating the learning process, enhancing a student’s life and inculcating a desire for culture. Without extensive preparation that presents the nature and structure of the arts, minimal exposure will only reach a small percentage of the student body. Appreciation of the arts is highly desirable in a culture overly focused on television and computer games. However, it may be an unaffordable luxury, compared to the retention of teaching jobs.

One of the most, if not the most important requisite for the student is the development of confidence. This characteristic enables positive participation and exploration of the learning process. With a carefully designed syllabus, supplemented by appropriate teacher guidance and encouragement, drama can be an ideal method to help construct the willingness to explore new subject matter, without the fear of failure that often restricts students’ efforts. The process of getting up in front of one’s peers and overcoming inhibitions will result in improved academic performance and the acquisition of general life skills.

Students should not be encouraged to become actors, directors, etc. They should be urged to become willing participants in an experience that will help them overcome fears of inadequacy and low self-esteem. The benefits of functioning in the public spotlight will be apparent in improved grades, positive attitudes and better involvement in the learning process. This will be facilitated by the teacher expressing appreciation for efforts, not comparisons to others, or for their talent as actors. Drama can easily be incorporated in the curricula to include difficult or underserved students.

The major reasons for selecting drama before the other art disciplines are: affordability, since no elaborate supplies are necessary for basic classroom activity; accessibility to all, regardless of differing levels of talent and ability; active involvement in a dynamic process that precludes passive participation; the development of a mindset to overcome obstacles and explore risk-taking without negative comments or criticisms; the application of a tool that is all-inclusive and will contribute to creating a positive environment for learning.

Any good teacher can easily prepare to use a dramatic methodology that will outreach to all, rather than appeal to an elite by rewarding the facile or talented few. Since our society doesn’t test infants for their future potential, and opportunity is more available to the privileged, the educational system is vital in the development potential of the majority of students. Our society faces innumerable problems, including fractured families and the overexposure of youth to television as an early learning mechanism, not the ideal educational process.

The responsibility of preparing youth for their roles in society mandates their nurturing, and the educational system is the crucial environment. Our future existence as a culture will be determined by the success or failure of our students to become productive citizens who will solve the problems of tomorrow.