Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study is to examine (1) the extent to which California high schools implement the California State Framework for the Visual and Performing Arts and (2) the selected factors affecting implementation. The framework unites four disciplines (dance, drama/theatre, music, and the visual arts) into a single, integrated curriculum. Following the instructional components of the framework (aesthetic perception, creative expression, arts heritage, and aesthetic valuing) and the goals and objectives listed, districts design their curriculum, select materials, and subsequently determine their own program. Methodology. A questionnaire was sent to visual and performing arts department chairs from 265 California high schools. Responses reported the level of implementation. High schools in the upper third of the distribution (high implementers) were compared to high schools in the lower third (low implementers) regarding selected support factors. Findings and conclusions. High implementers showed significantly higher ratings than low implementers with respect to administrative support, community support, facilities, equipment, integration into other subject areas, percentage of qualified teachers, level of staff development, and existence of a district coordinator for the visual and performing arts. Other findings included relatively low ratings for dance and integration of the visual and performing arts into other subject areas, even among high implementers. Further examination of the data determined that programs tend to concentrate on creating and performing (creative expression component) with little concentration on aesthetics or arts heritage. Recommendations for further research included relationships between: (1) visual and performing arts and enhancement of students' knowledge in other subject areas; and (2) teacher skills (communication, interpersonal relationships, management) and success of the visual and performing arts programs. Districts implementing a fine arts curriculum should focus on developing objectives for arts heritage and aesthetic valuing.