Author: Gould, Samuel B.

Publication Year: 1967

Media Type: Periodical (article)

Summary:

There are educators who earnestly and sincerely question the validity of the arts in higher education. Why this is so is not too difficult to determine. The major reason, of course, is the time-honored one that so much of what one wishes to deal with in the arts touches upon technique as opposed to philosophy. The conservative view in higher education is that all such matters are better left to the responsibility of others. The traditional disciplines approached through traditional courses attended by traditionally selected students represent what is rightfully the concern of colleges and universities. Nothing else is necessary; indeed, anything else may be dangerous since it may confuse the mission of higher education. There are other times and places and methods for exploration of the arts, and there are other kinds of students who should be accommodated elsewhere

Abstract:

There are educators who earnestly and sincerely question the validity of the arts in higher education. Why this is so is not too difficult to determine. The major reason, of course, is the time-honored one that so much of what one wishes to deal with in the arts touches upon technique as opposed to philosophy. The conservative view in higher education is that all such matters are better left to the responsibility of others. The traditional disciplines approached through traditional courses attended by traditionally selected students represent what is rightfully the concern of colleges and universities. Nothing else is necessary; indeed, anything else may be dangerous since it may confuse the mission of higher education. There are other times and places and methods for exploration of the arts, and there are other kinds of students who should be accommodated elsewhere.

A number of factors are beginning to mitigate against this point of view, so much so, in fact, that I think the educational conservatives are, in the long run, fighting a losing battle. Some of these factors relate to the arts and others do not, but all are pertinent. Most obvious of the related ones, of course, is the tremendous surge of interest in the arts in America, one that has been identified over and over. It is impossible to have such interest and not have the question arise as to whether higher education has a role in coping with it directly or indirectly. (p. 52-55)

Arts & Intersections:

Categories: Arts Education