Art Integration Engages Students

This study examines the engagement of first-year students at Lynn University in Florida with justice-related topics through art integration, involving seven volunteers who participated in qualitative research with informed consent. Utilizing action research methodology, data was collected via pre-and post-surveys, interviews, and student journals. Participants independently selected topics like reproductive rights, U.S. foreign conflicts, mental health, substance abuse, and environmental concerns, and learned about these issues while creating art. The findings indicated that participants' engagement was significantly influenced by their ability to reflect their identities—encompassing experiences, values, and beliefs—in their artwork and to convey messages or perspectives through their art.