“The Role of the Arts in Teaching and Learning for Pupils with Severe and Profound Learning Difficulties: Insights from Theatre, Music, Painting, and Performing Arts”
Abstract
This article explores the transformative role of the arts (theatre, music and drawing) in the education of children with severe learning difficulties. It examines how these arts disciplines contribute to holistic development by fostering communication, motor skills and social engagement. Drama provides a rich sensory environment that enhances confidence, social understanding and peer support, while painting provides opportunities for self-expression and motor skills improvement through tactile exploration. The article also emphasizes the importance of inclusive teaching approaches that integrate the arts into special education, arguing that creative activities can unlock the potential of children with disabilities and promote emotional resilience, social cohesion, and academic engagement. The conclusion of the analysis is to advocate for educational institutions and policy makers to consider arts education as an important component of special education, emphasizing the ability of arts education to enrich the learning environment for students with diverse needs.
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