International conference stresses importance of arts in education

Thursday, Apr 17, 2014 15:37

Vinschools' students enjoy their art class.— Photo Vinschool

HA NOI (Biz Hub) — International and local educators participated in an international conference "Change in education model in the 21st century" held by Vinschool in the capital city on April 15.

The conference shared ideas on the innovative trends in education in the world and Viet Nam's experience in the sector.

Nguyen Thi My Loc, member of the textbook renewal programme under the Ministry of Education and Training, said that despite progress being made, the local education system still preferred to teach theory and science over others, adding that it should be balanced with more practical work, and the teaching of the arts, foreign languages and other skills to help the students develop their capabilities to fit with the international integration process.

Meanwhile, professor Lars Anderson from the Malmu Academy of Music in Sweden said that students who engaged with the arts performed better academically with higher average grade points and standardised test scores. Those students, according to the professor, had better social communication and creative skills than their peers who had less or no involvement with art.

Loc, who is also a member of the education board in Vinschool, said the local teachers should be trained to encourage their students actively in their learning, teamwork, work practice and in expressing their thoughts with art and music.

These methods would reveal the student interests and their potential, said Loc.

According to a Vinschool system representative, to best serve students with different levels of ability, their education program consists of five key elements: a standard MoET's education; intensive English training; life skills education; physical training; and an art programme.

The representative said the goal was not only to provide the students with basic knowledge to write national exams, but also to give them additional knowledge and diverse skills which are essential for their future life. —VNS

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