Date Approved

5-15-2024

Embargo Period

5-15-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (M.A.) Higher Education

Department

Educational Leadership, Administration and Research

College

College of Education

Advisor

Andrew Tinnin, Ed.D.

Committee Member 1

Tyrone McCombs, Ph.D.

Committee Member 2

Stephanie Lezotte, Ph.D.

Keywords

artistic expression, painting, academic performance, course material, higher education, graduate students

Subject(s)

Academic achievement; College students

Disciplines

Art and Design | Higher Education | Higher Education Administration

Abstract

This qualitative research study examined how artistic expression in the classroom can increase students’ academic performance and understanding of course material. This study consisted of graduate students in the Masters of Arts in Higher Education program at Rowan University, during the Fall/Spring 2023-2024 semesters, enrolled in at least one of the following courses: Crisis Management, Higher Education in America, and The College Student. The study utilized an artistic expression activity, painting, in connection with participants' course material and readings to understand the benefits of artistic expression on student success in the classroom. Some findings of this study show that artistic expression in connection with course material sparked participants' critical thinking, imagination, and creativity, had a deeper connection with classmates, allowing them to gain a better understanding of the readings, and let them to express themselves freely in the classroom conversation.

Download

Share

COinS