I had the opportunity to interview (via email) Brian Lloyd, the current head of the International Baccalaureate Music Program at the Downingtown STEM Academy. He shared below his views on STEM subjects versus the Arts.
Can you explain your current career(s) and educational achievement/degrees?
“My name is Brian Lloyd. I am the Choral Director, Head of Recording Studio and the Lead of the International Baccalaureate Music Program at the Downingtown STEM Academy. I have been teaching music for approximately 15 years. I hold a bachelor of science in music education and a master’s degree in instructional design: leadership in integrating technology in instruction. I am currently working on a PhD also in instructional design.”
Do you feel that the importance of the Arts (Art, Music, theater, etc.) is often overlooked when deciding the important subjects in a curriculum? Why or Why not?
“There are times that the arts are overlooked. Schools and communities are data driven which is why standardized testing maintains importance. There is countless research about the benefits of a robust arts program.”
Is there too much attention towards STEM subjects?
“Yes, it has become a bandwagon for schools and communities to jump on. In our district, I was not permitted to teach a STEM pathway because of my music specialty. It would have been a great time working with my colleagues in a class like iMedia.”
Many areas do not have exposure to the Arts. How can we make changes to give opportunity to everyone? Why or Why not?
“Research is being done to help this point. With the number of computers with internet connectivity in homes, web-based instruction is becoming more readily available to people in remote locations. I just recently read a journal article about Canada’s use of distance learning and it touched on this.”
Explain how the Arts did or did not impact your childhood (high school or prior). What school subjects did you most prefer? Least prefer?
“I was the kid that was always in the music room every chance I had. I took every music class that was offered. The other courses that I enjoyed the most were spanish, physics and chemistry. My least favorite subject was English.”
How do STEM subjects prepare a student for the real world?
“I do not believe that it is the subjects that prepare a student. There are so many factors related to this question. A student chooses classes based upon what he/she wants as a career. The teacher creates a learning environment that will prepare the student for that career. The other piece is a whole-school mission like our STEM Academy- Effort equals intelligence. We also use “growth mindset” quite frequently with our students and teachers as well. We are not satisfied and continue to challenge ourselves to be better. ALL of these factors prepare students for the real world.”
How does the Arts prepare a student for the real world?
“The arts are a vital part of being human. It is difficult to put into words with the time that I have to respond to this email. I did a quick search for some quotes that may help you with this question. Click here.”
Would you say that both the Arts and STEM subjects are needed to be successful? Or is one more important then the other?
“Yes, students need to have a full education. Anything less is a disservice to everyone.”
Thank you very much for your time and effort.
“It was my pleasure.”