Art Education and Social Emotional Learning: Practices to Enhance Students' Self-Awareness and Sense of Social Responsibility

Abstract

This study examines the role of art education in enhancing students’ self-awareness and social responsibility. Through the "Community Color Artist" program, a community-based art initiative, the research evaluates how integrating art education with Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) contributes to students’ emotional cognition and social engagement. Surveys were designed to capture perceptions from both students and parents, covering three key dimensions: artistic perception, self-awareness, and social responsibility. Data were collected before and after the activity. Comparative analysis revealed significant improvements in students’ self-awareness and social responsibility, with notable progress in emotional expression, community awareness, and collaborative skills. Parents also provided positive feedback, reporting observable growth in their children’s social competencies and sense of responsibility. This study offers empirical support for the integration of art education and SEL and proposes practical recommendations for implementing similar art-based activities in school settings.