Perceptions of confidence and background in the arts of preservice primary teachers from five countries

This paper reports the findings of a study involving 93 9 preservice primary generalist teachers in five countries. Initially the paper identifies the students' perceptions of their background and confidence in relation to music, dance, drama and visual arts. Secondly, it ascertains whether or not there is a statistically significant difference between male and female students in relation to their arts education background and confidence. Results indicated that, in general, students had a stronger background in music than in visual arts, dance and drama, and had a greater confidence and enjoyment in visual arts education than in music, dance and drama education. Twenty five percent of students had a good background in music, 20% in dance, 16% in visual arts, 15% in drama. In relation to confidence and enjoyment, 56% enjoyed and felt confident in, visual arts education, 49% in music, 46% in drama and 45% in dance. In general, females were more confident in arts education and had a stronger background in the arts than males. Based on the results of this survey suggestions are made to enhance the teaching of arts education