- ARTSBUILD helps southwest Wisconsin artists lay the foundation for entrepreneurial success
Beyond creativity and originality, artists need entrepreneurial know-how to earn a living in their field. A UW-Platteville professional development program designed especially for use in southwest Wisconsin helps participants jumpstart their sales, sharpen their marketing skills, and meet supportive associates and benefactors. Since its 2004 launch, ARTSBUILD’s network has steadily increased to 350 artist members who consistently praise its worth. Growing partnerships between ARTSBUILD and state and local organizations have furthered the visibility of area arts, thus contributing to the health of local economies. Originally funded by a UW-Extension grant, the program has moved progressively towards self-sustainability.
- Creativity flourishes with 4-H Arts and Communication Program
A new study shows that 4-H Arts and Communication Program participants build strong technical know-how, confidence and self esteem. Younger children use feedback from project leaders and fair judges to improve their work. Experienced youth report they value teaching younger members, working with supportive adults and trying new things — letting their creativity flourish. More than 80 4-H arts and communications programs reached about 19,000 youth in 2006.
- English-language training prepares international professionals and students for success in a multicultural world
Professionals and undergraduates who attended UW-Eau Claire Continuing Education's summer Intensive English Program learned English skills and experienced American life, resulting in cross-cultural exchange and understanding. Participants reported that the program improved their English, would have a positive influence on their careers, families and communities, helped them develop a more positive attitude about the United States, and helped them gain a new appreciation and understanding of themselves and the American people and culture.
- Odyssey Project humanities courses inspire underprivileged adults to embrace lifelong learning
Exposure to the humanities can help low-income adults develop skills that help them end a cycle of poverty and encourage future learning. In 2003, UW-Madison introduced the Odyssey Project, an educational program that would offer underprivileged residents the opportunity to receive free college credit for taking humanities courses. By Spring 2006, three classes of Odyssey students had graduated from the program–79 of the 88 students enrolled, or nearly 90% of them. Many Odyssey graduates continue to pursue education at UW-Madison and at other institutions. UW-Madison''s Division of Continuing Studies is one of many university and community partners who have collaborated to make the program possible.
- Portal Wisconsin Web site delivers information on arts, culture and humanities in one easy stop
Portalwisconsin.org, a Web site of arts and cultural events programs throughout Wisconsin, demonstrates that cultural and educational organizations can partner together to raise their profiles and extend their reach. It encourages community engagement and program collaboration, and has made it easier for prospective audiences to learn about and enjoy Wisconsin programs of interest to them. The arts and cultural tourism generate significant revenue for localities and the state, and Portalwisconsin.org helps cultural tourists spend their money in Wisconsin.
- School of the Arts boosts arts programming and tourism in Rhinelander
Rhinelander''s School of the Arts has brought art to the people—and people to the arts—for more than 40 years. An annual grassroots learning program administered by UW-Madison Extension, School of the Arts receives the consistent and overwhelming support of Rhinelander residents and businesspeople, who recognize the economic, educational, and cultural benefits the week-long event brings their community. In July 2007, more than 300 participants came from every corner of Wisconsin—as well as from nine Midwestern states—to study visual arts, music, photography, drama, writing, movement, and computer arts from regional experts.
- Training in distance-learning technology leads to success for K-12 classrooms
Wisconsin school districts rely on distance-learning technology to provide courses to students and training to teachers. The University of Wisconsin-Extension Instructional Communication System (ICS) provides two-day summer training for K-12 teachers and support staff that shows them how to adapt course materials, use equipment, and follow distance-education issues in order to use this technology more appropriately. ICS has also lent technological and pedagogical support to the new Wisconsin Center for Music Education. The Center—of particular value as school arts programs undergo repeated cuts—offers both on site and online programming to music educators, students, and community members throughout the state.
