Saudi Arabia Intermediate School Curriculum (Grades 7-9) - Art Education

Information on the specifics of the Saudi Arabia Intermediate School Art Education curriculum for grades 7-9 is limited. However, based on available information, the following can be compiled:

General Overview:

Art education is included as part of the curriculum in Saudi Arabia's intermediate schools (grades 7-9). The Saudi Ministry of Education oversees the curriculum and provides free textbooks. The curriculum aims to contribute to the students' emotional growth and development. There is a recognized need for a more comprehensive educational framework to cover the entire education sector, including art education.

Curriculum Goals and Objectives:

While specific learning outcomes and assessment criteria for the intermediate level are not readily available, the broader goals of art education in Saudi Arabia align with fostering creativity, cultural appreciation, and artistic expression. Research suggests a need for evaluating the effectiveness of art education programs and addressing challenges in implementation. A 2009 study examined art education in boys' middle schools and found that some administrators undervalue art education.

Initiatives and Programs:

Several initiatives and programs aim to promote art and culture within the Saudi Arabian education system:

• Manga Education Program (May 2023): This program for intermediate and secondary school students uses educational episodes developed by Japanese university experts.
• Music Education Initiative (October 2024): Over 9,000 music teachers were hired to introduce music education in schools.
• The King's Foundation: Offers programs like the Building Arts & Crafts Intermediate Diploma in Jeddah and programs in AlUla, focusing on traditional arts and crafts.
• Royal Institute of Traditional Arts: Provides cultural education and community programs to develop local capabilities in traditional arts.

Challenges and Future Directions:

Research highlights the need for continuous improvement in art education in Saudi Arabia, including addressing the perceptions of administrators and strengthening the overall framework for arts education. The integration of new programs and initiatives suggests a growing emphasis on arts and culture within the education system.