RSA launch Learning about Culture research programme
Date Created: 1st Nov 2017
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Learning About Culture is a two-and-a-half year investigation into the role that cultural learning plays in improving educational outcomes for children. Its intention is to develop more evidence of what works and support schools and cultural organisations to use that evidence, as well as evidence from their own work and elsewhere, to continuously improve their practice.
At the centre of the programme is a partnership between The Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA) and the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) to deliver the UK’s largest ever study of cultural learning. The RSA’s research and engagement will go beyond that study, working with partners in the cultural and education sectors to build a commitment to self-improvement as strong as the commitment to ensuring access.
The five Cultural Learning Fund trials – all currently recruiting schools:
The Power of Pictures – Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE)
Teachers work with author-illustrators of children’s books to develop their understanding of the craft of picture book creation and illustration as a way of raising children’s achievement in literacy.
The Craft of Writing – Arvon, University of Exeter, the Open University
Residential writing courses supporting teachers to develop their identity and craft as writers and to transfer new pedagogical approaches to the classroom. The project aims to improve children’s writing skills and motivation to write.
Speech Bubbles – London Bubble
Small group drama for children who lack confidence in communicating, have difficulty communicating and/or have poor attention and listening skills. Children act out their own stories together. The project aims to improve communications skills and confidence.
The Young Journalist Academy – Paradigm Arts
Newsrooms are created in school in which children work with industry professionals to research and write news stories, produce films and radio content. The project aims to improve children’s literacy, confidence, communications skills, and collaborative working.
First Thing Music – Tees Valley Music Service
A structured music education programme involving whole classes participating in daily singing and musical games. Students will learn the basics of music, develop their literacy, and social and emotional skills.
