Art connections: An investigation of art education courses for preservice generalists

Abstract

This article discusses a mixed-methods study funded by the National Arts Education Foundation that investigated art education courses designed for preservice generalist teachers at universities across the United States. Qualitative data from the survey revealed five reoccurring concepts: (a) arts integration, (b) time/course mandate, (c) missing components to the course, (d) need for quality faculty, and (e) respect for arts education. The data provided from this study establish baseline information and set benchmarks to guide future policies and investigations regarding this type of course.