How the fine arts create the finest students: A design thinking study

Abstract This study addresses the problem of insufficient emphasis on art courses in helping students develop 21st‐century skills. As globalization continues, industries increasingly interconnect, creating a necessity for 21st‐century skills. Universities are responsible for equipping the next generation of scholars with the soft skills needed to succeed, such as creativity, adaptability, innovation and collaboration. However, universities disservice students and their future employers by isolating departments and overlooking collaboration opportunities. Rather than this narrow‐minded approach to education, academia must challenge the status quo and reflect on the needs of an increasingly globalized world. This research study used a qualitative single case study methodology based on constructivist learning theory and design thinking to analyse the effect of art education courses taken by non‐art majors on students' development of 21st‐century skills. The literature examines why a lack of emphasis on the arts exists and what skills students gain through arts exposure.