Art Education for Economic and Community Development: A Case Study of Two Nicaraguan Communities
Open AccessThis study was designed to determine if involvement in an art-based service-learning project would empower the intergenerational communities of La Chureca and Tipitapa; leading them to make choices that build self-efficacy and increase personal and communal economic independence. The study also examines if art and art education can help the people of these communities realize the socio-economic potential in repurposing recyclable materials from their environment in a sustainable way. Participants ranged in age from eight to seventy-seven.The study was conducted using a qualitative approach and participatory action research methods. Data collection methods consisted of field notes, interviews, observations, participants notes, photographs and artifacts and analyzed using the constant comparative method of data analysis. Analytic induction was also used to identify recurring themes and patterns and determine significance.The study found evidence that transformative learning occurred. There was an increase in participant participation, creativity, income, opinions and a significant increase in self-empowerment and self-confidence. This study also demonstrates how: art can change the world, the importance of education versus a "handout," demonstrates how art can empower, the importance of educators teaching about social justice, connects art education and important life concepts, and how social justice service learning can help people find a voice.Keywords: intergenerational arts learning; art-based service learning, art and social justice; repurposed art; art and recyclables; community-based art; art and transformative learning
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