Handbook of Research and Policy in Art Education

This comprehensive volume offers a definitive examination of the evolution and current state of art education, synthesizing decades of scholarship into a single, authoritative resource. Eisner masterfully integrates the critical domains of history, educational policy, curriculum design, and learning assessment, creating a foundational text for understanding the field's development. The book provides a crucial overview of the research and policy landscapes that have shaped how art is taught and valued in educational systems. It stands as an essential map of the intellectual territory for anyone seeking to grasp the complex interplay between theory and practice in arts learning.

What distinguishes this handbook is its balanced presentation of competing perspectives, refusing to settle for a singular narrative and instead honoring the field's rich debates. Graduate students and scholars will find it an indispensable starting point for new research, while policymakers and administrators will gain critical context for making informed decisions about arts programming. By profiling the interconnectedness of history, policy, and classroom practice, Eisner provides not just information but a framework for thinking deeply about art education's future. This work will undoubtedly shape the next generation of art education research and reform.