Importance of Music and Arts in Academic Success: Beyond Passing Grades

Academically, the passing grade in the Philippines (PH) is set at 75. However, what happens when your marks fall short? For instance, one student scored 68 and 73 in music and arts, subjects not in their major. Concerned about their path forward, particularly given the school’s regulation that failing three subjects necessitates retaking the year, the student wonders if failing music and arts counts towards this rule.

Is Failing Music and Arts Considered in Academic Regulations?

Considering the regulations, one can deduce that failing music and arts (i.e., two subjects) could count towards the requirement of retaking the year. That being said, the student should still be wary of the repercussions that might come from such grades, especially if other subjects are also subpar. It's wise to cross-check with the school’s policies, as variations can be found across different institutions.

Why Music and Arts Are Crucial

The areas of music and arts are undeniably significant in a student’s overall educational development. They contribute to a well-rounded education, analogous to the importance of math and science. Strong engagement in these subjects instills skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving—abilities that are not only beneficial in academic settings but also in personal and professional life.

Engaging in music and arts involves discipline, time management, and dedication. These qualities are transferable to other areas of study, and they help build a resilient and adaptable individual. Moreover, extracurricular activities in music and arts foster social skills, teamwork, and a sense of community, which are invaluable in modern educational environments.

The Role of Academic Attitude and Effort

The question of why a student might have failed music and arts brings us to a more critical point: the importance of academic attitudes and effort. Often, grades in these subjects are indicative of a student’s approach to learning. If a student perceives music and arts as “fluff courses” and does not give them the same level of effort and dedication as other subjects, it can lead to lower grades.

It is crucial to instill the value of discipline and hard work in every subject, regardless of perceived importance. Whether it's mathematics, science, or the arts, each subject offers unique opportunities for growth and learning. Approaching every subject with the same level of seriousness can greatly influence a student's overall performance and long-term success. Furthermore, it prepares students for real-world challenges where adaptability and versatility are highly valued.

Retaking Classes vs. Retaking a Year

A part of the current concern revolves around whether retaking classes or retaking a year would be more beneficial. If a student is struggling with specific subjects, it is often more effective to address these issues through targeted remediation rather than retaking the entire year. Schools that require students to retake a year due to poor performance in multiple subjects can sometimes compound the problem by overwhelming the student with a large volume of coursework.

On the other hand, retaking classes allows the student to focus on areas of difficulty, ensuring the mastery of important concepts and skills. This approach is often more manageable and can lead to improved understanding and performance in the long run. It also helps in maintaining a positive academic trajectory without the added pressure and stress of retaking an entire year.

Conclusion

While failing music and arts subjects may count towards the requirement of retaking a year, the true impact of these failures lies in the student's overall attitude towards learning and the effort exerted in every subject. It is essential to foster a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the value of every subject in a well-rounded education.

Ultimately, the key to academic success and personal growth lies in a balanced approach, where every subject, whether in your major or in music and arts, is given equal importance and attention. This holistic view ensures that students develop a well-rounded set of skills and a more comprehensive understanding of the world around them.