Artful Learning is based on Bernstein's philosophy that the arts can strengthen learning and be incorporated in all academic subjects.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://digitalcommons.nl.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1000&context=dp2013 |title=THEThe LEONARDLeonard BERNSTEINBernstein ARTFULArtful LEARNINGLearning MODELModel: A CASEcase STUDYstudy OFof ANan ELEMENTARYelementary SCHOOLschool |work=digitalcommons.nl.edu |date= |accessdate=2013-12-01}}</ref> The program is based on "units of study," which each consist of four core elements: experience, inquire, create, and reflect.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/alexander-bernstein/leonard-bernsteins-artsba_b_3427779.html |title=Leonard Bernstein's Arts-Based Education Revolution |work=huffingtonpost.com |date= |accessdate=2013-06-12}}</ref>
