Societal transformations such as globalization, digitalization, and migration challenge social cohesion and inclusion in an increasingly diverse Europe. The d@rts project responds to these challenges by positioning performing arts education as a key enabler of cultural literacy, enhancing dialogue across social and cultural divides.
At its core, d@rts investigates and implements innovative arts education practices in music, dance, and drama that foster social inclusion through dialogical engagement. By leveraging the embodied, expressive, and interactive nature of the performing arts, the project advances cultural literacy as a dialogical practice that allows meaningful engagement with diversity. Our dialogical conceptualization of cultural literacy moves beyond knowledge acquisition, and emphasizes participation in inclusive encounters, in turn addressing prejudices, discrimination, and monocultural attitudes.
The project integrates interdisciplinary research and participatory innovation, examining policies, curricula, and practices across formal and non-formal education in five European countries (Norway, Finland, Germany, Italy, and Serbia) and two non-European countries (Uganda and Aotearoa/New Zealand). d@rts adopts a comparative and multi-sited approach, exploring diverse arts education practices, developing new methodologies, and co-creating arts-based innovations to strengthen cultural literacy and social inclusion.
The expected impact of d@rts is multifaceted. Through its research and participatory arts education innovations, the project generates evidence on how cultural literacy enhances social inclusion. Furthermore, it contributes to the development of cultural and educational policies, providing innovative pedagogical frameworks, and enhancing the capacity of educators, artists, and community actors. The project’s digital component—a dialoguing-platform and playground—further sustains international exchange of ideas and practices, ensuring long-term impact and accessibility. By engaging a diverse set of stakeholders, including marginalized groups, policymakers, educators, and cultural institutions, d@rts envisions a future where performing arts education actively contribute to building cohesive and inclusive societies.
