Themes for this edition:

‘THE IMPORTANCE OF CHILDREN’S FIRST CONTACT WITH THE ARTS’


keywords: musical initiation; musical training, artistic education in preschool; artistic education in the 1st cycle of basic education; learning psychology; art in early childhood.

Art represents a fundamental component in the Basic Law of the Portuguese Educational System, making it clear that the arts must be part of children’s education from a very early age because, without them, their development is incomplete. Artistic activities not only affect the cognitive, emotional and artistic side, but they also help children to feel more connected to school, which motivates them to participate more actively in school activities. These activities contribute to the development of autonomy, imagination, creativity, ability to deal with emotions and social interactions, and are therefore a form of communication. All of these elements are essential for good learning in any area and for shaping children’s personalities. Therefore, it is essential to think about and improve children’s first contact with the arts and their manifestations.

‘INNOVATION IN THE ARTS: PEDAGOGICAL, TECHNOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL’


keywords: curriculum adaptation; curricular innovation; motivation; improvisation; new technologies; multimedia; artificial intelligence; digital literacy.

The constant search for facilitating strategies in pedagogical practice is essential, especially in the era of globalization and the search for immediate results. The traditional pedagogical method no longer meets expectations, demotivating students. Advancing in teaching requires significant learning, which not only addresses the disciplinary content, but also stimulates curiosity, creativity and affection, transforming students into active participants in the process, not just passive recipients of knowledge. We must, therefore, think about new and distinct educational proposals, shaped by changes in its structure, with students as the main focus and aligned with the demands of an increasingly modern and constantly changing society. This requires investments in human resources, materials and pedagogical projects. Reinventing the teaching-learning process also requires familiarity with new technologies and openness to the advantages of artificial intelligence. Traditional methods cannot engage students as much, making it crucial to innovate strategies that adapt to their interests and the world around them.

‘THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE ARTS TO SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS’


keywords: art and education; special education; special educational needs; art therapy; music therapy; inclusion.

In inclusive education, welcoming students with special needs goes beyond mere integration. It is crucial to offer diverse approaches that encourage their integral development. The arts, recognized for their benefits in this context, require teachers in these areas to have a reflective stance, as they are active mediators of opportunities, essential to building an inclusive school for all. For these students, art transcends mere expression; It is a way of exploring life and an escape from reality, exercising both the body and the mind. It is described as “a powerful means of contact with reality and its expression”.

‘THE CONTRIBUTION OF ARTISTIC EDUCATION IN THE DEFENSE OF A SUSTAINABLE CULTURE’


keywords: sustainability; culture; material and intangible heritage; artistic heritage; ethnomusicology; public art; participatory art; formal and informal education

Culture plays a fundamental role in sustainability, with UNESCO highlighting the importance of cultures and their policies in the sustainable development of regions in the economic, political and social spheres. In today’s globalized world, the power of culture in transforming societies is clearly perceived. From historic monuments and museums, to traditional practices and contemporary art forms, culture enriches our daily lives in many ways. Cultural heritage is a source of identity and cohesion for communities, in the face of change and economic instability. Creativity contributes to the construction of open, inclusive and diverse societies. Both cultural heritage and creativity are pillars of a vibrant, innovative and prosperous knowledge society.